Absorbent article having a waist gasketing element

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure relates to absorbent articles having a waist gasketing element, with the gasketing element having an adhesive zone and one or more adhesive-free zones. At least a portion of the waist gasketing element is adhesively attached to a chassis of the absorbent article. Additionally, a portion of the waist gasketing element is mechanically attached to a portion of the absorbent article. The bio-based content of the absorbent article is from about 5% to about 100% using ASTM D6866-10, method B.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/930,181, filed on Nov. 4, 2019; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/855,001, filed on May 31, 2019; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/930,198, filed on Nov. 4, 2019; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/930,808, filed on Nov. 5, 2019, which are all hereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to disposable absorbent articles having a waist gasketing element, and more specifically to waist gasketing elements having an adhesive free-zone and an adhesive zone. The present disclosure also relates to disposable absorbent articles having bio-based content and other environmentally friendly features.

BACKGROUND

Various types of articles, such as for example, diapers and other absorbent articles, have components that include elastic parts, such as for example, waistbands. In some configurations, waistbands may be provided as a single layer of elastic material, such as an elastic film. In some configurations, the waistbands may be provided as an elastic laminate that may include elastic material bonded to one or more substrates such as nonwovens, wherein the elastic material may include an elastic film and/or elastic strands. Providing an elasticated waistband at the top edge of the disposable absorbent article can have improved fit and containment. An elasticated waistband can help contain exudates by providing increased pressure between the skin and the article to form a seal that helps to prevent exudates from exiting the product in the waist area. Additionally, elasticated waistbands can physically close gaps that may otherwise be formed when the wearer moves into positions, such as bending forward at the waist.

Waistbands can be located at one or both of the front and back edges of absorbent articles. In closed form “pant” articles, waistbands can be continuously formed to provide a waistband around the entire top edge of the article. In some articles, a waistband can be provided on the back only and spaced down from the edge of the article to close gaps in the rear part of the article. Articles providing a waistband that is spaced down from the edge typically exhibit larger ruffles at the top edge of the product as compared to articles having a waistband that is coterminous with the edge of the article. These ruffles can appear to caregivers as gaps from which exudates could leak even though the waist may close the gaps just below this region. Therefore, articles with waistbands that are coterminous with the edge of the article are may be preferred. However, some caregivers perceive waistbands that are spaced down from the edge of the article as being better leakage barriers.

Elasticated waistbands can comprise a variety of elastic materials such as stranded elastics, films, elastic nonwovens materials, elastic glues, and so forth. These materials can have a high coefficient of friction and/or can be tacky. Such elastic portions of the materials can be laminated to another material with a lower coefficient of friction, such as a polypropylene nonwoven, to protect the wearer from direct contact with the elastic material. The materials can be laminated together with a variety of means, including adhesively bonding, mechanically bonding, thermally bonding, or other suitable techniques. For some absorbent articles, the material laminated with the elastic material is material already existing for another reason in an absorbent article, such as a topsheet, or for other absorbent articles it could be a material specifically designed to cover the elastic in the waistband region only. Therefore, with regard to waistbands that are externally attached to the inside surface (i.e., body-facing side) of the article, a material specifically designed to cover the elastic material can be used. Therefore, it can be beneficial to provide a waistband that is both covered with a material and provided at the longitudinal edges of the article.

Waistbands that are attached to the external, inside surface of the article can be attached using a variety of methods, including mechanically attached, adhesively attached, thermally attached, co-formed, and so forth. The most typical way in the industry to attach a waistband to the external surface is adhesive bonding. Adhesive equipment applications typically cost less than comparable mechanical applications, are readily known in the industry, and perform well on most waistband applications, particularly for waistbands that are positioned on an internal surface of the diaper (i.e. sandwiched) by existing materials such as topsheet and or backsheet. Sandwiching the waistband ensures that any of the adhesive applied to attach the waistband is covered and is not in direct contact with the user.

With externally applied waistbands, however, problems can occur that are detrimental to the efficacy of the absorbent article and have not been resolved completely within high speed absorbent article manufacturing applications. Most predominantly, a portion of the adhesive can become exposed to the user surface of the article and stick to the user during use and removal of the product, or otherwise make it difficult for the product to be prepared for application to the user. The adhesive can become exposed through a variety of ways. For instance, variations in the waistband attachment can lead to the lateral edges (i.e., left and right side edges) folding over or rolling up thereby exposing the underside of the waistbands and the adhesive. Further, the adhesively attached waistbands can snag on various componentry of the equipment during subsequent manufacturing or stick to various processes. In addition, adhesives can take time to solidify in the manufacturing process. If there are other processes downstream of the waistband attachment process, there may not be sufficient time for the adhesive to solidify and thus, waistbands can be easily pulled off of the article in the process with a very low force. Additionally, many times the adhesive is applied to a layer of the article such as the topsheet, and variation related to attaching the waistband, particularly in high speed manufacturing processes, can lead to an edge of the adhesive becoming exposed on one side or the other.

An approach to address the issues created with adhesive bonding of externally applied waistbands is to mechanically attach them. A mechanical attachment process can bond the waistband to the article immediately so there is smaller risk that the waistband will fall off during subsequent processing. In addition, mechanical attachments are not tacky, so even if a portion of the waistband rolls up, it will not stick to the user. Nevertheless, mechanical attachment presents several other issues, particularly in the central absorbent region of an article—especially when waistbands are attached to the chassis after the absorbent core and the chassis have already been combined. For instance, mechanical attachment can create holes that can lead to leaks of bodily exudates through the outer cover of the absorbent article. Variations in the process or the equipment manufacture can also make it difficult to create adequate bonds. In addition, mechanical bonding over the absorbent core of the absorbent article can be ineffective if the mechanical bond contacts airfelt or absorbent gel material (AGM) that is distributed within the absorbent core. Airfelt is wood pulp based and does not melt and does not bond well to the rest of the polymers in the article, leading to poor bonding. AGM can burn and become dark when subjected to a mechanical bonding process and also does not chemically pair well with other polymers, such as polypropylene. As a result, poor bonding or no bonding can occur.

Therefore, it would be advantageous to have an externally applied waistband that addresses the problems associated with adhesively bonding at the edges, namely, exposed adhesive, and premature falling off in the process. It would also be advantageous to have an externally applied waistband that addresses the problems associated with mechanically bonding near the absorbent core, namely, holes in the outer cover and burnt spots. It would further be advantageous to have an externally applied waistband that is attached at or near the longitudinal edges of the article to prevent large gathers that may be perceived as gaps and that is laminated to a nonwoven material to protect the user from the high friction materials of the elastomer.

Further, the vast majority of commercially available disposable absorbent articles contain a significant amount of petrochemicals. For example, most mass-produced absorbent articles include fibrous outer layers (e.g., topsheet, outer cover) that contain at least some petroleum-based fibers and a liquid barrier layer made from a petroleum-based film. This segment of disposable absorbent articles also typically contains lotions on the wearer facing surface, and includes fragrances or perfumes for positive scent experiences. Some users would prefer a more “natural” and environmentally friendly product. Thus, there is a need for absorbent articles that contain natural or bio-based materials and/or that are devoid of unwanted materials.

SUMMARY

In one form, a disposable absorbent article comprises a front waist region, a back waist region, and a crotch region disposed between the first and second waist regions; a longitudinal axis and a lateral axis; a front waist edge, a back waist edge, a first side edge extending longitudinally and a second side edge extending longitudinally; and a chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet. The disposable absorbent article also comprises a waist gasketing element comprising a proximal end edge, a distal end edge, a first side edge, and a second side edge, and an elastic material. The disposable absorbent article also comprises a leg gasketing element comprising a proximal end edge, a distal end edge, a first side edge, a second side edge, and an elastic material. At least a portion of the waist gasketing element is adhesively attached to the chassis, wherein at least a portion of the waist gasketing element is mechanically attached to the chassis, and wherein the waist gasketing element comprises an adhesive zone, a first adhesive-free zone, and a second adhesive-free zone. The bio-based content of the absorbent article is from about 5% to about 100%, or about 10% to about 50%, using ASTM D6866-10, method B.

In another form a disposable absorbent article comprises a front waist region, a back waist region, and a crotch region disposed between the front and back waist regions; a longitudinal axis and a lateral axis; a front waist edge, a back waist edge, a first side edge extending longitudinally and a second side edge extending longitudinally; and a chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet. The disposable absorbent article also comprises a waist gasketing element comprising a proximal end edge, a distal end edge, a first side edge and a second side edge, and an elastic material. The disposable absorbent article also comprises a leg gasketing element comprising a proximal end edge, a distal end edge, a first side edge and a second side edge, and an elastic material. At least a portion of the waist gasketing element is adhesively attached to the chassis and wherein at least a portion of the waist gasketing element is mechanically attached to the leg gasketing element, wherein the waist gasketing element comprises an adhesive zone, a first adhesive-free zone, and a second adhesive-free zone. The absorbent article may be free of chlorine, perfume, lotion, green number 7 dye, and non-phthalate catalyst polypropylene.

The disposable absorbent articles of the present disclosure may comprise bio-based content, may comprise other environmentally friendly features, and/or may be devoid of unwanted materials.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a partially cut away plan view of an absorbent article in the form of a taped absorbent article that may include one or more waist gasketing elements in accordance with the present disclosure with the portion of the absorbent article that faces away from a wearer oriented towards the viewer.

FIG. 1B is a plan view of the absorbent article of FIG. 1A that may include one or more waist gasketing elements in accordance with the present disclosure with the portion of the absorbent article that faces toward a wearer oriented towards the viewer.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of a back waist region of an absorbent article with the portion of the absorbent article that faces toward a wearer oriented towards the viewer.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of absorbent article taken along line 3-3 in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 depicts waist gasketing elements positioned in front and back waist regions of an absorbent article with the portion of the absorbent article that faces toward a wearer oriented towards the viewer.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of absorbent article taken along line 5-5 in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a plan view of a back waist region of an absorbent article with the portion of the absorbent article that faces toward a wearer oriented towards the viewer in accordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 7 schematically depicts a cross-sectional view of a waist gasketing element attached to a top sheet that is taken along a lateral axis of an example absorbent article.

FIG. 8 is a schematic top view of a laminate that can be cut in the cross direction to form waist gasketing elements.

FIG. 9 depicts the laminate of FIG. 8 subsequent to a knife cut in the cross direction, thereby forming waist gasketing elements, which are shown spaced apart in the machine direction.

FIG. 10 schematically depicts an example waist gasketing laminate prior to separation at a cutting locations.

FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of example waist gasketing element taken in the machine direction.

FIG. 12 depicts the waist gasketing element from FIG. 11 in a relaxed, contracted condition.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various non-limiting forms of the present disclosure will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the absorbent articles having a waist gasketing element disclosed herein. One or more examples of these non-limiting forms are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that absorbent articles having a waist gasketing element described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting example forms and that the scope of the various non-limiting forms of the present disclosure are defined solely by the claims. The features illustrated or described in connection with one non-limiting form may be combined with the features of other non-limiting forms. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

The following term explanations may be useful in understanding the present disclosure:

“Absorbent article” is used herein to refer to consumer products whose primary function is to absorb and retain soils and wastes. Absorbent articles can comprise sanitary napkins, tampons, panty liners, interlabial devices, wound dressings, wipes, disposable diapers including taped diapers and diaper pants, inserts for diapers with a reusable outer cover, adult incontinent diapers, adult incontinent pads, and adult incontinent pants. The term “disposable” is used herein to describe absorbent articles which generally are not intended to be laundered or otherwise restored or reused as an absorbent article (e.g., they are intended to be discarded after a single use and may also be configured to be recycled, composted or otherwise disposed of in an environmentally compatible manner).

The term “feminine hygiene articles” refers to disposable absorbent articles used by women for catamenial protection. Such feminine hygiene articles may include sanitary napkins, tampons, interlabial products, incontinence devices, and pantiliners. Non-limiting examples of panty liners and sanitary napkins include those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,324,246; 4,463,045; 4,342,314; 4,556,146; 4,589,876; 4,687,478; 4,950,264; 5,009,653; 5,267,992; and 6,004,893, which are all incorporated by reference herein.

An “elastic,” “elastomer” or “elastomeric” refers to materials exhibiting elastic properties, which include any material that upon application of a force to its relaxed, initial length can stretch or elongate to an elongated length more than 10% greater than its initial length and will substantially recover back to about its initial length upon release of the applied force.

As used herein, the term “joined” encompasses configurations whereby an element is directly secured to another element by affixing the element directly to the other element and configurations whereby an element is indirectly secured to another element by affixing the element to intermediate member(s), which in turn are affixed to the other element.

The term “substrate” is used herein to describe a material which is primarily two-dimensional (i.e. in an XY plane) and whose thickness (in a Z direction) is relatively small (i.e. 1/10 or less) in comparison to its length (in an X direction) and width (in a Y direction). Non-limiting examples of substrates include a web, layer or layers of fibrous materials, nonwovens, and films and foils such as polymeric films or metallic foils. These materials may be used alone or may comprise two or more layers laminated together. As such, a web is a substrate.

The term “nonwoven” refers herein to a material made from continuous (long) filaments (fibers) and/or discontinuous (short) filaments (fibers) by processes such as spunbonding, meltblowing, carding, and the like. In some configurations, a nonwoven may comprise a polyolefin based nonwoven, including but not limited to nonwovens having polypropylene fibers and/or polyethylene fibers and/or bicomponent fibers comprising a polyolefin and/or blends of fibers containing cotton or other organic materials. Nonlimiting examples of suitable fibers include spunbond, spunlaid, meltblown, spunmelt, solvent-spun, electrospun, carded, film fibrillated, melt-film fibrillated, air-laid, dry-laid, wet-laid staple fibers, hydroentangled, and other nonwoven web materials formed in part or in whole of polymer fibers as known in the art, and workable combinations thereof. Nonwovens do not have a woven or knitted filament pattern. It is to be appreciated that nonwovens having various basis weights can be used in accordance with the present disclosure. For example, some nonwovens may have a basis weight of at least about 8 gsm, 12 gsm, 16 gsm, 20 gsm, 25 gsm, 30 gsm, 40 gsm, or 65 gsm. Some nonwovens may have basis weights of about 8 gsm to about 65 gsm, specifically reciting all 1 gsm increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby.

It is to be appreciated that films having various basis weights can be used in accordance with the present disclosure. For example, some films may have a basis weight of at least about 8 gsm, 12 gsm, 16 gsm, 20 gsm, 25 gsm, 30 gsm, 40 gsm, or 60 gsm. Some films may have basis weight of about 8 gsm to about 60 gsm, specifically reciting all 1 gsm increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby.

The term “machine direction” (MD) is used herein to refer to the direction of material flow through a process. In addition, relative placement and movement of material can be described as flowing in the machine direction through a process from upstream in the process to downstream in the process.

The term “cross direction” (CD) is used herein to refer to a direction that is generally perpendicular to the machine direction.

The term “taped diaper” (also referred to as “open diaper”) refers to disposable absorbent articles having an initial front waist region and an initial back waist region that are not fastened, pre-fastened, or connected to each other as packaged, prior to being applied to the wearer. A taped diaper may be folded about the lateral centerline with the interior of one waist region in surface to surface contact with the interior of the opposing waist region without fastening or joining the waist regions together. Example taped diapers are disclosed in various suitable configurations in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,167,897, 5,360,420, 5,599,335, 5,643,588, 5,674,216, 5,702,551, 5,968,025, 6,107,537, 6,118,041, 6,153,209, 6,410,129, 6,426,444, 6,586,652, 6,627,787, 6,617,016, 6,825,393, and 6,861,571; and U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2013/0072887 A1; 2013/0211356 A1; and 2013/0306226 A1, which are all incorporated by reference herein.

The term “pant” (also referred to as “training pant”, “pre-closed diaper”, “diaper pant”, “pant diaper”, and “pull-on diaper”) refers herein to disposable absorbent articles having a continuous perimeter waist opening and continuous perimeter leg openings designed for infant or adult wearers. A pant can be configured with a continuous or closed waist opening and at least one continuous, closed, leg opening prior to the article being applied to the wearer. A pant can be preformed or pre-fastened by various techniques including, but not limited to, joining together portions of the article using any refastenable and/or permanent closure member (e.g., seams, heat bonds, pressure welds, adhesives, cohesive bonds, mechanical fasteners, etc.). A pant can be preformed anywhere along the circumference of the article in the waist region (e.g., side fastened or seamed, front waist fastened or seamed, rear waist fastened or seamed). Example diaper pants in various configurations are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,940,464; 5,092,861; 5,246,433; 5,569,234; 5,897,545; 5,957,908; 6,120,487; 6,120,489; 7,569,039 and U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2003/0233082 A1; 2005/0107764 A1, 2012/0061016 A1, 2012/0061015 A1; 2013/0255861 A1; 2013/0255862 A1; 2013/0255863 A1; 2013/0255864 A1; and 2013/0255865 A1, all of which are incorporated by reference herein.

“Animal-based fibers” includes wool, hair, and secretions, such as silk.

“Bio-based content” refers to the amount of carbon from a renewable resource in a material as a percent of the mass of the total organic carbon in the material, as determined by ASTM D6866-10, method B. In order to apply the methodology of ASTM D6866-10 to determine the bio-based content of any absorbent article or component thereof, a sample can be ground into particulates less than about 20 mesh using known grinding methods (e.g., WILEY mill), and a representative sample of suitable mass taken from the randomly mixed particles. Alternatively, if the sample is merely a layer of material, then the layer itself can be analyzed without the need for a pre-grinding step. Note that any carbon from inorganic sources such as calcium carbonate is not included in determining the bio-based content of the material. See additional information below for measuring bio-sourced content in polymers. Components of the absorbent articles described in this specification can at least partially be comprised of bio-sourced content as described in the following U.S. Published Patent Applications Nos.: U.S. 2007/0219521, U.S. 2011/0139658, U.S. 2011/0139657, U.S. 2011/0152812, U.S. 2011/0139662, and U.S. 2011/0139659.

Absorbent articles of the present disclosure may be “devoid of” or “free of” particular undesirable materials, ingredients, or characteristics in some forms. “Devoid of” “free of,” and the like, as those terms are used herein, can mean the absorbent article does not have more than trace amounts of background levels of the material, ingredient, or characteristic following these qualifiers; the amount of the material or ingredient does not cause harm or irritation that consumers typically associate with the material or ingredient; or the material or ingredient was not added to the absorbent article intentionally. In some instances, “devoid of” and “free of” can mean there is no measurable amount of the material or ingredient. For example, the absorbent article in some forms contain no measurable amounts of chlorine—that is, the article is characterized as being totally chlorine free.

“Naturally-derived” materials includes materials that are partially chemically altered without petroleum components and that have been minimally processed such that they not be altered to such an extent that they are substantially less biodegradable or more toxic.

“Natural fibers” refers to elongated substances produced by plants and animals and includes animal-based fibers and plant-based fibers, as those categories are described herein. Natural fibers, as that term is used herein, include fibers harvested without any post-harvest treatment step as well as those having a post-treatment step, such as, for example, washing, scouring, bleaching.

“Plant-based fibers”, as that term is used herein, includes both harvested fibers and synthetic fibers that comprise bio-based content. Harvested plant-based fibers include cellulosic matter, such as wood pulp; seed hairs, such as cotton; stem (or bast) fibers, such as flax and hemp; leaf fibers, such as sisal; and husk fibers, such as coconut.

“Renewable resource” refers to a natural resource that can be replenished within a 100 year time frame. The resource may be replenished naturally, or via agricultural techniques. Renewable resources include plants, animals, fish, bacteria, fungi, and forestry products. They may be naturally occurring hybrids, or genetically engineered organisms.

Validation of Polymers Derived from Renewable Resources

A suitable validation technique is through ¹⁴C analysis. A small amount of the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is radioactive. This ¹⁴C carbon dioxide is created when nitrogen is struck by an ultra-violet light produced neutron, causing the nitrogen to lose a proton and form carbon of molecular weight 14 which is immediately oxidized to carbon dioxide. This radioactive isotope represents a small but measurable fraction of atmospheric carbon. Atmospheric carbon dioxide is cycled by green plants to make organic molecules during photosynthesis. The cycle is completed when the green plants or other forms of life metabolize the organic molecules, thereby producing carbon dioxide which is released back to the atmosphere. Virtually all forms of life on Earth depend on this green plant production of organic molecules to grow and reproduce. Therefore, the ¹⁴C that exists in the atmosphere becomes part of all life forms, and their biological products. In contrast, fossil fuel based carbon does not have the signature radiocarbon ratio of atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Assessment of the renewably based carbon in a material can be performed through standard test methods. Using radiocarbon and isotope ratio mass spectrometry analysis, the bio-based content of materials can be determined. ASTM International, formally known as the American Society for Testing and Materials, has established a standard method for assessing the bio-based content of materials. The ASTM method is designated ASTM D6866-10.

The application of ASTM D6866-10 to derive a “bio-based content” is built on the same concepts as radiocarbon dating, but without use of the age equations. The analysis is performed by deriving a ratio of the amount of organic radiocarbon (¹⁴C) in an unknown sample to that of a modern reference standard. The ratio is reported as a percentage with the units “pMC” (percent modern carbon).

The modern reference standard used in radiocarbon dating is a NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) standard with a known radiocarbon content equivalent approximately to the year AD 1950. AD 1950 was chosen since it represented a time prior to thermo-nuclear weapons testing which introduced large amounts of excess radiocarbon into the atmosphere with each explosion (termed “bomb carbon”). The AD 1950 reference represents 100 pMC.

“Bomb carbon” in the atmosphere reached almost twice normal levels in 1963 at the peak of testing and prior to the treaty halting the testing. Its distribution within the atmosphere has been approximated since its appearance, showing values that are greater than 100 pMC for plants and animals living since AD 1950. It's gradually decreased over time with today's value being near 107.5 pMC. This means that a fresh biomass material such as corn could give a radiocarbon signature near 107.5 pMC.

Combining fossil carbon with present day carbon into a material will result in a dilution of the present day pMC content. By presuming 107.5 pMC represents present day biomass materials and 0 pMC represents petroleum derivatives, the measured pMC value for that material will reflect the proportions of the two component types. A material derived 100% from present day soybeans would give a radiocarbon signature near 107.5 pMC. If that material was diluted with 50% petroleum derivatives, for example, it would give a radiocarbon signature near 54 pMC (assuming the petroleum derivatives have the same percentage of carbon as the soybeans).

A bio-based content result is derived by assigning 100% equal to 107.5 pMC and 0% equal to 0 pMC. In this regard, a sample measuring 99 pMC will give an equivalent bio-based content value of 92%.

Assessment of the materials described herein can be done in accordance with ASTM D6866. The mean values quoted in this report encompasses an absolute range of 6% (plus and minus 3% on either side of the bio-based content value) to account for variations in end-component radiocarbon signatures. It is presumed that all materials are present day or fossil in origin and that the bio-based content result is the amount of bio-based component “present” in the material.

For the purposes of a specific illustration, FIGS. 1A and 1B show an example of an absorbent article 100 in accordance with the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 1A shows one example of a plan view of an absorbent article 100 configured as a taped diaper 100T, with the portion of the absorbent article that faces away from a wearer oriented towards the viewer. FIG. 1B shows a plan view of the absorbent article 100 with the portion of the absorbent article that faces toward a wearer oriented towards the viewer. The taped diaper 100T shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B includes an absorbent chassis 102, first and second rear side panels 104 and 106; and first and second front side panels 108 and 110.

As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the absorbent article 100 and the chassis 102 each include a first waist region 116, a second waist region 118, and a crotch region 119 disposed intermediate the first and second waist regions. The first waist region 116 may be configured as a front waist region, and the second waist region 118 may be configured as a back waist region. In some embodiments, the length of each of the front waist region, back waist region, and crotch region may be ⅓ of the length of the absorbent article 100. The absorbent article may also include a laterally extending front waist edge 120 in the front waist region 116 and a longitudinally opposing and laterally extending back waist edge 122 in the back waist region 118. To provide a frame of reference for the present discussion, the diaper 100T in FIGS. 1A and 1B is shown with a longitudinal axis 124 and a lateral axis 126. The longitudinal axis 124 may extend through a midpoint of the front waist edge 120 and through a midpoint of the back waist edge 122. And the lateral axis 126 may extend through a midpoint of a first longitudinal or right side edge 128 and through a midpoint of a second longitudinal or left side edge 130.

As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the absorbent article 100 includes an interior surface 132 (i.e., wearer facing), and an outer, exterior surface 134 (i.e., garment facing). As such, it is also to be appreciated that the various components of the absorbent article described below may each include inner, wearer facing surfaces 132, and an outer, garment facing surfaces 134. The chassis 102 may include a backsheet 136 and a topsheet 138. The chassis 102 may also include an absorbent assembly 140, including an absorbent core 142, disposed between a portion of the topsheet 138 and the backsheet 136. As discussed in more detail below, the absorbent article 100 may also include other features, such as leg elastics and/or leg gasketing elements, waist gasketing element(s), and/or flaps, e.g., side panels and/or ears, to enhance the fits around the legs and waist of the wearer, to enhance the fit around the legs of the wearer. Any of the nonwovens of the various components of the absorbent articles disclosed herein may comprise non-phthalate catalyst polypropylene fibers.

As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the periphery of the chassis 102 may be defined by the first longitudinal side edge 128. The second longitudinal side edge 130, a first laterally extending end edge 144 disposed in the first waist region 116, and a second laterally extending end edge 146 disposed in the second waist region 118. Both side edges 128 and 130 extend longitudinally between the first end edge 144 and the second end edge 146. As shown in FIG. 1A, the laterally extending end edges 144 and 146 may form a portion of the laterally extending front waist edge 120 in the front waist region 116 and a portion of the longitudinally opposing and laterally extending back waist edge 122 in the back waist region 118. The distance between the first lateral end edge 144 and the second lateral end edge 146 may define a pitch length, PL, of the chassis 102. When the absorbent article 100 is worn on the lower torso of a wearer, the front waist edge 120 and the back waist edge 122 may encircle a portion of the waist of the wearer. At the same time, the side edges 128 and 130 may encircle at least a portion of the legs of the wearer. The crotch region 119 may be generally positioned between the legs of the wearer with the absorbent core 142 extending from the front waist region 116 through the crotch region 119 to the back waist region 118.

It is to also be appreciated that a portion or the whole of the absorbent article 100 may also be made laterally extensible. The additional extensibility may help allow the absorbent article 100 to conform to the body of a wearer during movement by the wearer. The additional extensibility may also help, for example, the user of the absorbent article 100, including a chassis 102 having a particular size before extension, to extend the front waist region 116, the back waist region 118, or both waist regions of the absorbent article 100 and/or chassis 102 to provide additional body coverage for wearers of differing size, i.e., to tailor the diaper to an individual wearer. Such extension of the waist region or regions may give the absorbent article a generally hourglass shape, so long as the crotch region is extended to a relatively lesser degree than the waist region or regions, and may impart a tailored appearance to the article when it is worn.

As previously mentioned, the absorbent article 100 may include a backsheet 136. The backsheet 136 may also define the outer surface 134 of the chassis 102. The backsheet 136 may be impervious to fluids (e.g., menses, urine, and/or runny feces) and may be manufactured in part from a thin plastic film, although other flexible, liquid impervious materials may also be used. The backsheet 136 may prevent the exudates absorbed and contained in the absorbent core from wetting articles which contact the absorbent article 100, such as bedsheets, pajamas and undergarments. The backsheet 136 may also comprise a woven or nonwoven material, polymeric films such as thermoplastic films of polyethylene or polypropylene, and/or multi-layer or composite materials comprising a film and a nonwoven material (e.g., having an inner film layer and an outer nonwoven layer). The backsheet 136 may also comprise an elastomeric film. An example backsheet 136 may be a polyethylene film having a thickness of from about 0.012 mm (0.5 mils) to about 0.051 mm (2.0 mils). Exemplary polyethylene films are manufactured by Clopay Corporation of Cincinnati, Ohio, under the designation BR-120 and BR-121 and by Tredegar Film Products of Terre Haute, Ind., under the designation XP-39385. The backsheet 136 may also be embossed and/or matte-finished to provide a more clothlike appearance. Further, the backsheet 136 may permit vapors to escape from the absorbent core (i.e., the backsheet is breathable) while still preventing exudates from passing through the backsheet 136. The size of the backsheet 136 may be dictated by the size of the absorbent core 142 and/or particular configuration or size of the absorbent article 100. The backsheet films may comprise bio-based materials, such as, for example, bio-based polyethylene. The backsheet may be joined to an outer cover material. The outer cover material (sometimes referred to as a backsheet nonwoven) may comprise one or more nonwoven materials joined to the backsheet and that covers the backsheet. The outer cover material is typically the outermost layer facing outward—i.e., towards garments or undergarments when present and away from the wearer's skin. A caregiver interacts significantly with the outer cover material when holding/comforting the wearer and/or changing the absorbent articles. The outer cover material forms at least a portion of the garment-facing surface of the absorbent article and effectively “covers” the backsheet so that film is not present on the garment-facing surface. The outer cover material may comprise a bond pattern, apertures, and/or three-dimensional features. The outer cover material may comprise a carded nonwoven or a multi-layered nonwoven comprising carded layers and one or more spunbond layers. The outer cover material may also comprise only spunbond layers.

The nonwoven or nonwovens in the outer cover material can comprise a combination of plant-based fibers and synthetic fibers that are not plant-based. For example, the nonwoven can comprise both polypropylene fibers and cotton fibers; see, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. U.S. 2017/0203542. The cotton content can range from about 3% to about 100%, about 3% to about 50%, about 5% to about 50%, about 5% to about 100%, about 10% to about 100%, about 10% to about 50%, 15% to about 50%, about 15% to about 100%, about 14.5% to about 50%, or about 14.5% to about 100%, by weight of the nonwoven. When synthetic fibers such as polypropylene are employed, it is preferred that the polypropylene be non-phthalate catalyst polypropylene fibers.

The outer cover material may comprise a hydroentangled, dual layer nonwoven web, wherein one layer comprises a polypropylene spunbond web having a basis weight in the range of from about 5 to about 15 gsm, and the other layer comprises a carded nonwoven web comprising cotton fibers and a basis weight in the range of from about 10 to about 25 gsm. The outer cover material may comprise an air through carded nonwoven web comprising a blend of polypropylene fibers and cotton fibers. The cotton fibers can be included in these nonwoven webs in an amount of about 5%, 10%, or 15% to about 20%, 30%, or 50%, by weight of the overall nonwoven web.

Also described above, the absorbent article 100 may include a topsheet 138. The topsheet 138 may also define all or part of the inner surface 132 of the chassis 102. The topsheet 138 may be compliant, soft feeling, and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. It may be elastically stretchable in one or two directions. Further, the topsheet 138 may be liquid pervious, permitting liquids (e.g., menses, urine, and/or runny feces) to penetrate through its thickness. A topsheet 138 may be manufactured from a wide range of materials such as woven and nonwoven materials; apertured or hydroformed thermoplastic films; apertured nonwovens, porous foams; reticulated foams; reticulated thermoplastic films; and thermoplastic scrims. Woven and nonwoven materials may comprise natural fibers such as wood or cotton fibers; synthetic fibers such as polyester, polypropylene, or polyethylene fibers; or combinations thereof. If the topsheet 138 includes fibers, the fibers may be spunbond, carded, wet-laid, meltblown, hydroentangled, or otherwise processed as is known in the art.

Topsheets 138 may be selected from high loft nonwoven topsheets, apertured film topsheets and apertured nonwoven topsheets. Apertured film topsheets may be pervious to bodily exudates, yet substantially non-absorbent, and have a reduced tendency to allow fluids to pass back through and rewet the wearer's skin. Exemplary apertured films may include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,628,097; 5,916,661; 6,545,197; and 6,107,539, which are all incorporated by reference herein.

The topsheet may comprise a nonwoven having one or multiple formed layers comprising plant-based fibers other than wood pulp. The nonwoven can be made through well-known techniques; for example, the nonwoven can be a spunbond, or be a carded and air-through or calendar bonded nonwoven. The plant-based fibers can also be spun fibers made at least in part from bio-based materials. For example, the plant-based fibers can be spun starch fibers or bio-based polyolefin spun fibers. The plant-based fibers can be single component fibers or multi-component fibers, wherein less than all of the components are plant-based fibers. One example is a bi-component fiber comprising a polyester core component and a bio-based polyethylene sheath component.

The topsheet may be a dual layer, spunbond nonwoven web. Each of the layers may have a basis weight from about 10 gsm to about 25 gsm or about 10 gsm to about 35 gsm. One layer may have similar or different hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity profiles compared to the other layer. For example, a wearer facing layer of the topsheet may be hydrophobic and a garment-facing layer of the topsheet may be hydrophilic. In another form, the topsheet may be an air-through carded nonwoven web comprising a blend (e.g., 50-50 weight percent) of polyester fibers and bio-based polyethylene fibers. The basis weight of such a nonwoven is typically about 20 gsm, 25 gsm, 30 gsm, 35 gsm, or 40 gsm.

Many commercially-available absorbent articles comprise a skin care composition on at least a portion of the topsheet; and these compositions tend to contain petrolatum or other petroleum-based materials as their main component. The topsheet may be devoid of a lotion or skin care composition. However, a skin care composition or lotion can optionally be added to the topsheet. And if one is, it is preferred, but not required, to employ a composition based upon natural or naturally-derived materials such as fats, oils or waxes, for example. The optional lotions can comprise vegetable oils, algae oils, bacterial derived oils, and animal fats, combinations of theses, and the like. Representative examples of vegetable oils include argan oil, canola oil, rapeseed oil, coconut oil, corn oil, cottonseed oil, olive oil, palm oil, peanut oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, soy-bean oil, sunflower oil, high oleoyl soy-bean oil, high oleoyl sunflower oil, linseed oil, palm kernel oil, tung oil, castor oil, high oloeyl sunflower oil, high oleoyl soybean oil, high erucic rape oils, Jatropha oil, combinations of theses, and the like. Representative examples of animal fats include lard, tallow, chicken fat, yellow grease, fish oil, combinations of these, and the like. A representative example of a synthesized oil includes tall oil, which is a byproduct of wood pulp manufacture. Additional suitable lotion compositions derived from renewable resources are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0144239.

As mentioned above, the absorbent article 100 may also include an absorbent assembly 140 that is joined to the chassis 102. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the absorbent assembly 140 may have a laterally extending front edge 148 in the front waist region 116 and may have a longitudinally opposing and laterally extending back edge 150 in the back waist region 118. The absorbent assembly 140 may have a longitudinally extending right side edge 152 and may have a laterally opposing and longitudinally extending left side edge 154, both absorbent assembly side edges 152 and 154 may extend longitudinally between the front edge 148 and the back edge 150. The absorbent assembly 140 may additionally include one or more absorbent cores 142 or absorbent core layers. The absorbent core 142 may be at least partially disposed between the topsheet 138 and the backsheet 136 and may be formed in various sizes and shapes that are compatible with the diaper. Exemplary absorbent structures for use as the absorbent core of the present disclosure are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,610,678; 4,673,402; 4,888,231; and 4,834,735, which are all incorporated by reference herein.

Some absorbent core embodiments may comprise fluid storage cores that contain reduced amounts of cellulosic airfelt material. For instance, such cores may comprise less than about 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, 5%, or even 1% of cellulosic airfelt material. Such a core may comprise primarily absorbent gelling material in amounts of at least about 60%, 70%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or even about 100%, where the remainder of the core comprises a microfiber glue (if applicable). Such cores, microfiber glues, and absorbent gelling materials are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,599,335; 5,562,646; 5,669,894; and 6,790,798 as well as U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2004/0158212 A1 and 2004/0097895 A1, which are all incorporated by reference herein.

The absorbent material (e.g., cellulosic airfelt material or absorbent gelling material (also known as superabsorbent polymers)) of an absorbent or fluid storage core may be enclosed in a core wrap or core bag. The core wrap or core bag may be constructed with one or more nonwovens. The core wrap may form a C-wrap. The nonwovens may comprise non-phthalate catalyst polymers or bio-based content or materials, such as plant-based fibers.

The absorbent gelling material or superabsorbent polymers of the core may comprise a bio-based acrylic acid. Bio-based acrylic acid and methods of production are further described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. U.S. 2007/0219521 and U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,703,450 and 9,630,901. The absorbent gelling material or superabsorbent polymers of the present disclosure may have a bio-based content of from about 5% to about 100%, from about 10% to about 100%, from about 25% to about 100%, from about 40% to about 100%, from about 50% to about 100%, from about 75% to about 100%, or from about 90% to about 100%.

As previously mentioned, the absorbent article 100 may also include elasticized leg gasketing elements 156 and a waist gasketing element 158. It is to be appreciated that the leg gasketing elements 156 can be and are sometimes also referred to as leg bands, side flaps, barrier cuffs, elastic cuffs, leg gasketing systems, or gasketing cuffs. The elasticized leg gasketing elements 156 may be configured in various ways to help reduce the leakage of body exudates in the leg regions. Example leg gasketing elements 156 may include those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,860,003; 4,909,803; 4,695,278; 4,795,454; 4,704,115; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0312730 A1, which are all incorporated by reference herein. Useful materials of the elasticized leg gasketing elements and/or the waist gasketing element include, but are not limited to, spunbond-meltblown-spunbond (SMS) nonwovens. Such nonwovens can comprise non-phthalate catalyst polypropylene fibers and/or plant-based fibers. The elastic materials in the leg and waist gasketing elements may be latex-free.

An acquisition material and/or a distribution material may be positioned intermediate the topsheet and the absorbent core. The acquisition material may be positioned more proximate to the topsheet while the distribution material may be positioned more proximate to the absorbent core. The acquisition material and/or the distribution material may comprise one or more nonwovens, foams, cellulosic materials, cross-linked cellulosic materials, air laid cellulosic nonwoven materials, spunlace materials, or combinations thereof, for example. The cellulosic materials and cross-linked cellulosic materials may be bleached, but preferably not via chlorine-bleaching so as to be total chlorine free. Hydrogen peroxide is one example bleaching material that is useful in making acquisition and/or distribution materials that are totally chlorine-free.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the chassis 102 may include longitudinally extending and laterally opposing leg gasketing elements 156 that are disposed on the interior surface 132 of the chassis 102 that faces inwardly toward the wearer and contacts the wearer. Each leg gasketing element 156 may have a proximal edge 182 and a distal edge 184. Each leg gasketing element 156 may also have a first side edge 186 and a second side edge 188. The leg gasketing elements may also overlap the absorbent assembly 140, wherein the second side edges 188 extend laterally inward of the respective side edges 152 and 154 of the absorbent assembly. In some configurations, the leg gasketing elements 156 may not overlap the absorbent assembly. It is to be appreciated that the leg gasketing elements 156 may be formed in various ways, such as for example, by folding portions of the chassis 102 laterally inward, i.e., toward the longitudinal axis 124, to form both the respective leg gasketing elements 156 and the side edges 128 and 130 of the chassis 102. In another example, the leg gasketing elements 156 may be formed by attaching an additional layer or layers to the chassis at or adjacent to each of the respective side edges and of the chassis. Each of the leg gasketing elements 156 may be joined to the interior surface 132 of the chassis and/or the absorbent assembly in leg gasketing element attachment zones in the front waist region 116 and in leg gasketing element attachment zones in the back waist region 118. The leg gasketing elements 156 may extend to the same longitudinal extent as the absorbent article 100 or alternatively the leg gasketing elements 156 may have a longitudinal extent that is less than the absorbent article 100.

The waist gasketing element 158 may provide improved fit and containment and may be a portion or zone of the absorbent article 100 that may elastically expand and contract to dynamically fit a wearer's waist. The waist gasketing element 158 may comprise a laterally extending proximal end edge 174 and a longitudinally opposing and laterally extending distal end edge 176. The waist gasketing element 158 may also have a first side edge 178 and a second side edge 180. Both side edges 178 and 180 extend longitudinally between the proximal end edge 174 and the distal end edge 176. The waist gasketing element 158 may be constructed in a number of different configurations including those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,515,595 and 5,151,092, which are all incorporated by reference herein.

It is to be appreciated that the waist gasketing element 158 may be located in various positions relative to various diaper components. For example, the waist gasketing element 158 may be positioned longitudinally inwardly from the waist edges 120, 122 of the absorbent article and/or toward the lateral edges 148, 150 (FIG. 1A) of the absorbent core 142. In some configurations, the waist gasketing element 158 may be positioned with a lateral edge that is coterminous with the waist edges 120, 122, an example of which is shown in FIG. 6. In some configurations, the waist gasketing element 158 may be positioned such that laterally opposing end regions of the waist gasketing element 158 are located laterally inward from the leg gasketing elements 156. In some configurations, the waist gasketing element 158 may be positioned such that laterally opposing end regions of the waist gasketing element 158 overlap the leg gasketing elements 156. In some configurations, the waist gasketing element 158 may be positioned on the wearer facing surface 132 of the topsheet 138. In some configurations, the waist gasketing element 158 may be positioned on the wearer facing surfaces 132 of the topsheet 138 and the leg gasketing elements 156. In some configurations, the waist gasketing element 158 may be positioned on the wearer facing surfaces 132 of the topsheet 138, and laterally opposing end regions of the waist gasketing element 158 may be positioned between the leg gasketing elements 156 and the topsheet 138. In some configurations, the waist gasketing element 158 may be positioned on the garment facing service 134 of the backsheet 136. The absorbent article 100 may also include more than one waist gasketing element 158, as shown in FIG. 1B, for example, having one waistband 158 positioned in the back waist region 118 and one waistband 158 positioned in the front waist region 116, although other embodiments may be constructed with a single waist gasketing element 158.

At least a portion of the waist gasketing element 158 may be attached to the chassis 102 with an adhesive 170. The waist gasketing element 158 can define at least one adhesive zone 171 of adhesive 170 on the surface of the waist gasketing element 158 that adheres to the chassis 102. It is to be appreciated that the adhesive zone 171 of adhesive 170 may define various sizes and shapes relative to the waist gasketing element 158. For example, as shown in FIG. 1B, the adhesive zone 171 may extend in the cross direction CD for less than the entire width W of the waist gasketing element 158. In some configurations, the adhesive zone 171 may be positioned only on a central region 190 of the waist gasketing element 158 such that adhesive 170 is only provided in the central region 190, and other regions of the waist gasketing element 158 are not adhesively bonded to the chassis 102. In another embodiment, the adhesive zone 171 may extend in the machine direction for the entire length L (FIG. 1B) of the waist gasketing element 158 such that the adhesive is coterminous with the proximal end edge 174 and the distal end edge 176. One or more other portions of the waist gasketing element 158 may be mechanically attached to one or more substrates of the absorbent article 100 using mechanical bonds 172. For example, portions of the waist gasketing element 158 can be attached to the leg gasketing elements 156 using the mechanical bonds 172. The waist gasketing element 158 can therefore define at least a first adhesive-free zone 173 and a second adhesive-free zone 175 and the mechanical bonds 172 may be positioned within the first and second adhesive-free zones 173 and 175. It is to be appreciated that the first and second adhesive free zones 173 and 175 may define various sizes and shapes relative to the waist gasketing element 158. For example, as shown in FIG. 1B, the first adhesive-free zone 173 may laterally extend inward from the first side edge 178 towards the adhesive zone 171 and longitudinally extend from the proximal end edge 174 to the distal end edge 176. The second adhesive-free zone 175 may laterally extend inward from the second side edge 180 towards the adhesive zone 171 and longitudinally extend from the proximal end edge 174 to the distal end edge 176. In some configurations, the first and second adhesive free zones 173, 175 may be positioned laterally inward from the first side edge 178 and the second side edge 180, and in turn, adhesive zones may extend laterally outward from first and second adhesive free zones 173, 175 to or adjacent to the first side edge 178 and the second side edge 180. As described in more detail below, the waist gasketing element 158 may also define one or more adhesive-free zones that do not include mechanical bonds 172. For example, an adhesive-free zone may extend longitudinally from the proximal end edge 174 of the waist gasketing element 158 towards the adhesive zone 171 and extends laterally in the CD for less than the entire width W, therefore forming a pocket between the waist gasketing element 158 and the chassis 102. It is also to be appreciated that in some configurations, the waist gasketing element 158 may be attached to the chassis 102 with only mechanical bonds and without the use of adhesive.

Taped diapers may be manufactured and provided to consumers in a configuration wherein the front waist region and the back waist region are not fastened, pre-fastened, or connected to each other as packaged, prior to being applied to the wearer. For example, the taped diaper 100T may be folded about a lateral centerline with the interior surface 132 of the first waist region 116 in surface to surface contact with the interior surface 132 of the second waist region 118 without fastening or joining the waist regions together. The rear side panels 104 and 106 and/or the front side panels 108 and 110 and/or the leg gasketing elements 156 may also be folded laterally inward toward the inner surfaces 132 of the waist regions 116 and 118.

The absorbent article 100 may also include various configurations of fastening elements to enable fastening of the front waist region 116 and the back waist region 118 together to form a closed waist circumference and leg openings once the absorbent article is positioned on a wearer. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the absorbent article 100 may include first and second fastening members 162, 164, also referred to as tabs, connected with the first and second rear side panels 104, 106, respectively. The absorbent article may also include first and second front side panels 108, 110, that may or may not include fastening members.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B, each side panel 104, 106 and/or fastening member 162 and 164 may form a portion of or may be permanently bonded, adhered or otherwise joined directly or indirectly to the chassis 102 laterally inward from the side edges 128 and 130, in one of the front waist region 116 or the back waist region 118. Alternatively, the fastening members 162, 164 may form a portion of or may be permanently bonded, adhered or otherwise joined directly or indirectly to the first and second rear panels 104, 106 at or adjacent the distal edge of the panel and/or the first and second front side panels 108 and 110 at or adjacent the distal edge of the side panel. It is to be appreciated that the fastening members and/or side panels may be assembled in various ways, such as disclosed for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,371,302, which is incorporated by reference herein. The fastening members 162, 164 and/or side panels 104, 106, 108, 110 may also be permanently bonded or joined at or adjacent the side edges 128 and 130 of the chassis 102 in various ways, such as for example, by adhesive bonds, sonic bonds, pressure bonds, thermal bonds or combinations thereof, such as disclosed for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,702,551, which is incorporated by reference herein.

Referring now to FIG. 1B, the first fastening member 162 and/or the second fastening member 164 may include various types of releasably engageable fasteners. The first and second fastening members 162 and/or 164 may also include various types of refastenable fastening structures. For example, the first and second fastening members 162 and 164 may include mechanical fasteners 166, in the form of hook and loop fasteners, hook and hook fasteners, macrofasteners, buttons, snaps, tab and slot fasteners, tape fasteners, adhesive fasteners, cohesive fasteners, magnetic fasteners, hermaphroditic fasteners, and the like. Some examples of fastening systems and/or fastening members 162, 164 are discussed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,848,594; 4,662,875; 4,846,815; 4,894,060; 4,946,527; 5,151,092; 5,221,274; 6,251,097; 6,669,618; 6,432,098; and U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2007/0078427 A1 and 2007/0093769 A1, which are all incorporated by reference herein.

As previously mentioned, the fastening members 162 and 164 may be constructed from various materials and may be constructed as a laminate structure. The fastening members 162 and 164 may also be adapted to releasably and/or refastenably engage or connect with another portion of the diaper 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, the diaper 100 may include a connection zone 168, sometimes referred to as a landing zone, in the first waist region 116. The connection zone 168 may comprise nonwovens and fastener hooks that comprise polymers containing bio-based content, non-phthalate catalyst polypropylene fibers, and/or plant-based fibers. As such, when the taped diaper 100 is placed on a wearer, the fastening members 162 and 164 may be pulled around the waist of the wearer and connected with the connection zone 168 in the first waist region 116 to form a closed waist circumference and a pair of laterally opposing leg openings. It is to be appreciated that the connection zone may be constructed from a separate substrate that is connected with the chassis 102 of the taped diaper. In some embodiments, the connection zone may be integrally formed as part of the backsheet 136 of the diaper 100 or may be formed as part of the first and second front panels 108, 110, such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,735,840 and 5,928,212, which are both incorporated by reference herein.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of a back waist region of another example absorbent article 200 with the portion of the absorbent article that faces toward a wearer oriented towards the viewer. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 2 taken along line 3-3. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, and similarly to the absorbent article 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B, the absorbent article 200 includes a chassis 202 having a back waist edge 222 and side edges 228 and 230. The chassis 202 may include a backsheet 236 and a topsheet 238, as well as intermediate layers or materials, such as a polymeric backsheet film 235 and an absorbent assembly 240.

The absorbent article 200 also includes a waist gasketing element 258, which is schematically illustrated to include a laminate of an elastic film 220 bonded with a first nonwoven 216 and a second nonwoven 218. The first nonwoven 216 may be bonded to the second nonwoven 218 through any suitable technique, such as ultrasonic bonding, adhesive bonding, and so forth. One or both of the nonwovens 216 and 218 may be, for example, an elastomeric nonwoven or a non-elastic nonwoven. It is also be appreciated that the first nonwoven 216 and the second nonwoven 218 may be the same size or may have different sizes and may define the same or different widths and/or lengths. Further, while the waist gasketing element 258 is shown in FIG. 3 to have two layers of nonwovens, it is to be appreciated that this disclosure is not so limited. For example, the continuous elastic substrate may be configured as a bi-laminate with an elastic film bonded with a single nonwoven substrate, such as bi-laminate formed with the elastic film 220 and nonwoven 216. Further, instead of an elastic film 220, the waist gasketing element 258 can comprise elastic strands, or other suitable materials. The laminate of film 220 and one or more non-wovens can be an extrusion bonded laminate. It is also to be appreciated that the waist gasketing element 258 may be assembled in various ways, such as for example, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,572,595; 6,830,800; 7,087,287; and 7,803,244; and U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2018/0042778 A1; 2018/0042787 A1; 2018/0042779 A1; and 2018/0042780 A1, which are all incorporated by reference herein.

Mechanical bonds 272 are shown in FIG. 2 and schematically illustrated in FIG. 3 to depict the mechanical connection of the waist gasketing element 258 to the chassis 202. In some configurations, however, the mechanical connection is between the waist gasketing element 258 and leg gasketing elements 256 such that the chassis 202 is not incorporated into the mechanical bonds 272. Furthermore, in some configurations, the waist gasketing element 258 may be mechanically connected to the top sheet 238 but not the backsheet 236. Referring to FIG. 3, mechanical bonds 272 in the illustrated example are shown extending from the first nonwoven 216 to the backsheet 236 and intermediate substrates therebetween, such as leg gasketing elements 256. A first grouping of mechanical bonds 272 may be positioned within a first adhesive-free zone 273 (FIG. 2) and second grouping of mechanical bonds 272 may be positioned within a second adhesive-free zone 275 (FIG. 2). As shown in FIG. 2, the first adhesive-free zone 273 and the second adhesive-free zone 275 may each have a width W1 in the cross direction CD. In accordance with various configurations, the width W1 may be up to 75 mm, or in the range of about 5 mm to about 30 mm, or may be in the range of about 10 mm to about 20 mm, or may be about 15 mm. Each of the first adhesive-free zone 273 and the second adhesive-free zone 275 may extend in the machine direction MD from a proximal end edge 274 to a distal end edge 276 of the waist gasketing element 258. While mechanical bonds 272 may extend through multiple absorbent article components to bond the waist gasketing element 258 (as shown in FIG. 3), the mechanical bonds 272 may extend through just the waist gasketing element 258 and the topsheet 238, or just through waist gasketing element 258 and the leg gasketing elements 256, or just through the waist gasketing element 258, the topsheet 238, and leg gasketing elements 256.

A central portion of the example waist gasketing element 258 is attached to the chassis 202 with an adhesive 270. The waist gasketing element 258 can define at least one adhesive zone 271 of adhesive 270 on the surface of the waist gasketing element 258 that adheres to the chassis 202. As shown in FIG. 2, the adhesive zone 271 may have a width W2 in the cross direction CD and a height H1 in machine direction MD. In accordance with various configurations, the width W2 may be in the range of about 80 mm to about 260 mm, or may be in the range of about 90 mm to about 130 mm, or may be about 120 mm. The height of the waist gasketing element 258 in the machine direction MD is shown as H3. In some configurations, the adhesive zone 271 may extend in the machine direction MD from the proximal end edge 274 of the waist gasketing element 258 to the distal edge 276 of the waist gasketing element 258 such that H1 is substantially equal to H3. In accordance with various configurations, the H1 may be in the range of about 5 mm to about 35 mm, or may be in the range of about 25 mm to about 60 mm, or may be about 40 mm. In accordance with various configurations, the H3 may be in the range of about 10 mm to about 35 mm, or may be in the range of about 25 mm to about 80 mm, or may be about 40 mm. Further, the adhesive zone 271 may be spaced away from the proximal end edge 274 and/or the distal edge 276 of the waist gasketing element 258, including being spaced away by 1 mm, 2 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, or 15 mm from the proximal end edge 274 and/or the distal edge 276 of the waist gasketing element 258.

As shown in FIG. 2, the example waist gasketing element 258 defines a third adhesive-free zone 275 that has a width W2 in the cross direction CD and a height H2 in the machine direction MD. The third adhesive-free zone 277 may not include any adhesive or mechanical bonds and therefore may be disconnected from the chassis 102. As such, a pocket may be formed between the waist gasketing element 258 and the chassis 102 in that zone. The pocket may be defined in the machine direction MD by the portion of the proximal end edge 274 laterally extending between the first and second adhesive-free zones 273 and 275 and the adhesive zone 271. The pocket may be defined in the cross direction CD by the portion of the waist gasketing element 258 extended between the first and second adhesive-free zones 273 and 275. In accordance with various configurations, the H2 may be in the range of about 10 mm to about 35 mm, or may be in the range of about 25 mm to about 60 mm, or may be about 30 mm.

FIG. 2 depicts an example absorbent article 200 in which the waist gasketing element 258 is positioned such that the distal edge 276 of the waist gasketing element 258 is coterminous with the back waist edge 222. It is to be appreciated, that a waist gasketing element similar to the waist gasketing element 258 can optionally be provided in a front waist region of the absorbent article 200 and similarly positioned conterminously with a front waist edge. However, while the waist gasketing element 258 shown in FIG. 2 is coterminous with the back waist edge 222, this disclosure is not so limited. For example, FIG. 4 is a plan view of a back waist region 318 and a front waist region 316 of an absorbent article 300 with the portion of the absorbent article that faces toward a wearer oriented towards the viewer. The front waist region 316 is shown to have first and second front side panels 308 and 310 and the back waist region 318 is shown to have rear side panels 304 and 306. FIG. 4 depicts waist gasketing elements 358 positioned in the front and back waist regions 316 and 318. Similar to the waist gasketing elements described above, the waist gasketing elements 358 are bonded to a chassis 302 of the absorbent article 300 through mechanical bonds 372 positioned in adhesive-free zones 373 and 375. A central portion of each of the waist gasketing elements 358 is attached to the chassis 302 with an adhesive 370. The waist gasketing elements 358 define an adhesive zone 371 of adhesive 370 on the surface of the waist gasketing element 358 that adheres to the chassis 302. In this example configuration, the adhesive zone 371 extends in the machine direction MD to be coterminous with a proximal end edge 374 and a distal end edge 376 of the waist gasketing elements 358.

Referring now to the back waist region 318, the waist gasketing element 358 is positioned relative to the chassis 302 such that it is offset in the machine direction MD from a back waist edge 322 by an offset distance OD. The offset distance OD 0 mm, such that the distal end edge 376 of the waist gasketing elements 358 positioned in the back waist region 318 is coterminous with back waist edge 322 and waist gasketing elements 358 positioned in the front waist region 316 is coterminous with front waist edge 344. Alternatively, the offset distance OD can be in the range of about 1 mm to about 10 mm, or in the range of about 2 mm to about 5 mm, or in the range of about 5 mm to about 20 mm, or in the range of about 20 mm to about 50 mm, or can be about 10 mm. The waist gasketing element 358 is positioned in the front waist region 316 and may also be offset in the machine direction MD from a front waist edge 344 by an offset distance OD. The offset distance OD can be 0 mm or be in the range of about 1 mm to about 10 mm, or in the range of about 2 mm to about 5 mm, or in the range of about 5 mm to about 20 mm, or in the range of about 20 to about 40 mm, or can be about 10 mm.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 4 taken along line 5-5. As shown in FIG. 5, a central portion of the example waist gasketing element 358 is attached to the chassis 302 (FIG. 4) with an adhesive 370. In the illustrated example, the waist gasketing element 558 is schematically illustrated to include a bi-laminate of an elastic film 320 bonded with a nonwoven 319. The absorbent article 300 is shown to include a landing zone 368 that provides a connection zone for the fastening members 362 and 364 (FIG. 4). The fastening members 362 and 364 may be pulled around the waist of the wearer and connected with the landing zone 368 in the front waist region 316 to form a closed waist circumference and a pair of laterally opposing leg openings. In this example configuration, the mechanical bonds 372 extend through the waist gasketing element 358 and the landing zone 368, as well as various intermediate layers, such as leg gasketing elements 356, a polymeric backsheet film 335, and a backsheet 336. Incorporation of the landing zone 368 into the mechanical bonds 372 can beneficially improve strength of the mechanical bonds, and overlap of the landing zone 368 and the waist gasketing element 358 can provide stiffness to prevent or reduce inadvertent flipping of the waist gasketing element 358.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of a back waist region 418 of an absorbent article 400 with the portion of the absorbent article that faces toward a wearer oriented toward the viewer in accordance with another embodiment. The absorbent article 400 includes a chassis 402 that has a first side edge 428 and a second side edge 430. The absorbent article 400 has a width W1 in the cross direction CD as measured laterally between the first and second side edges 428 and 430. A waist gasketing element 458 schematically illustrated in FIG. 4 is attached to the chassis 402 through mechanical bonds 472 positioned in a first adhesive-free zone 473 and a second adhesive-free zone 475. A central portion of the example waist gasketing element 458 is attached to the chassis 402 with an adhesive 470. The waist gasketing element 458 can define at least one adhesive zone 471 of adhesive 470 on the surface of the waist gasketing element 458 that adheres to the chassis 402. The waist gasketing element 458 may comprise a laterally extending proximal end edge 474 and a longitudinally opposing and laterally extending distal end edge 476. The waist gasketing element 458 may also have a first side edge 478 and a second side edge 480. Both side edges 478 and 480 extend longitudinally between the proximal end edge 474 and the distal end edge 476. The waist gasketing element 458 has a width W2 in the cross direction CD as measured laterally between the side edges 478 and 480. In this embodiment, the first side edge 478 is coterminous with the first side edge 428 of the chassis 402 and the second side edge 480 is coterminous with the second side edge 430 of the chassis 402. Accordingly, in this example configuration the width of the back waist region 418 is the same as the width of the waist gasketing element 458, such that W1 is substantially equal to W2.

As shown in FIG. 6, the absorbent article 400 may include first and second fastening members 462, 464, also referred to as tabs, connected with the first and second rear side panels 404, 406, respectively. The first fastening member 462 and/or the second fastening member 464 may include various types of releasably engageable fasteners. The first and second fastening members 462 and/or 464 may also include various types of refastenable fastening structures. For example, the first and second fastening members 462 and 464 may include mechanical fasteners 466, in the form of hook and loop fasteners, hook and hook fasteners, macrofasteners, buttons, snaps, tab and slot fasteners, tape fasteners, adhesive fasteners, cohesive fasteners, magnetic fasteners, hermaphroditic fasteners, and the like.

The first and second fastening members 462, 464 can define a tab axis 426 extending in the cross direction through a longitudinal midpoint of each of the first and second fastening members 462, 464. The tab axis 426 may be parallel to a lateral axis of the absorbent article 400. The waist gasketing element 458 can define a waist gasketing element axis 424 extending in the cross direction through a longitudinal midpoint of the waist gasketing element 458. The waist gasketing element axis 424 may be parallel to the tab axis 426. In accordance with various configurations, the waist gasketing element axis 424 may be offset from the tab axis 426 in a direction towards the distal end edge 476 by an axis offset distance AOD. In FIG. 6, the tab axis 426 does not overlap any portion of the waist gasketing element 458, but this disclosure is not so limited. In some configurations, for example, the tab axis 426 may overlap a portion of the waist gasketing element 458 in a region located between the waist gasketing element axis 424 and the first side edge 478.

When the fastening members 462 and 464 are pulled around the waist of the wearer and connected with a front waist region to form a closed waist circumference a direct line of tension is formed between the fastening members 462 and 464. Offsetting the waist gasketing element axis 424 from the tab axis 426 by a distance AOD can beneficially keep the waist gasketing element 458 from being aligned with this direct line of tension. Thus, configuring the absorbent article 400 such that the waist gasketing element axis 424 is spaced away from the tab axis 426 may allow for the waist gasketing element 458 to be exposed to less force levels than the levels of force to which the fastening members 462 and 464 are exposed. As a result, the stretchable waist gasketing element axis 424 can retain energy that can be used to close gaps when the wearer bends yet not impact the overall span of the users the article can fit.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a simplified cross-sectional view of a waist gasketing element 558 attached to a top sheet 538 is schematically depicted. The example waist gasketing element 558 is shown to be a laminate of a first nonwoven 516, an elastic film 520, and a second nonwoven 518 that is formed through ultrasonic bonds 575. While ultrasonic bonds 575 are depicted in FIG. 7, any suitable technique for creating the laminate can be utilized. The bond sites can create a plurality of longitudinal channels 580 that are defined between the first nonwoven 516 and the elastic film 520. Another plurality of longitudinal channels 582 may be are defined between the elastic film 520 and the second nonwoven 518. Additional description regarding example bond patterns is found below with reference to the bonds 675 depicted in FIGS. 8 and 9.

Still referring to FIG. 7, the waist gasketing element 558 can define a plurality of different zones in the cross direction CD, shown as adhesive-free zones AFZs and an adhesive zone AZ. The adhesive zone AZ is the portion of the waist gasketing element 558 that is adhered to the top sheet 538 via an adhesive 570. The adhesive 570 can be applied to either the waist gasketing element 558 and/or the top sheet 538 in a stripes, or other formations that create gaps or spacings in the lateral direction between adjacent stripes of adhesive. A plurality of longitudinal channels 584 may be defined between the top sheet 538 and the second nonwoven 518. The plurality of longitudinal channels 580, 582, and 584, sometimes referred to a microchannels, can be formed when the elasticized waist gasketing element 558 is relaxed. The plurality of longitudinal channels 580, 582, and 584 can define an inboard opening at a proximal end edge of the waist gasketing element (such as proximal end edge 474 in FIG. 6) and an outboard opening at the distal end edge (such as distal end edge 476 in FIG. 6) of the waist gasketing element. The plurality of longitudinal channels 580, 582, and 584 can beneficially trap menses, urine, and/or runny feces.

FIG. 8 is a schematic top view of a laminate 660 that can be cut in the cross direction to form waist gasketing elements. FIG. 9 depicts the laminate 660 subsequent to cutting in the cross direction, thereby forming waist gasketing elements 658A and 658B, which are shown spaced apart in the machine direction 658 to show the end edges 674A and 674B that are formed subsequent to cutting. An example bond pattern having a plurality of bond sites 675 is shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. As is to be appreciated, the bond sites 675 can be used to bond various layers such as a film, and one or more non-wovens, to form a laminate. The arrangement of bond sites 675 can be configured to reduce the formation of an unwanted lip or flange across the entire end edges 674A, 674B. As shown in FIG. 9, while the end edges 674A, 674B are shown to have small bond-free portions 670, such bond-free portions 670 are disposed intermittently across the end edges 674A, 674B, with other portions of the end edges 674A, 674B having bonds.

The example arrangement of bond sites 675 illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9 generally shows a wavy pattern of bond sites 675. While the bond sites 675 are shown in a wavy pattern, other patterns can be used to provide the same benefits, such as, for example, a zig-zag pattern or other suitable repeating pattern, having an amplitude that at least about half the distance between consecutive bond sites in the machine direction MD.

As shown in FIG. 8, the bond sites 675 can form a plurality of waves 677 that each extend in the cross direction CD and have peaks 680 and valleys 682. The waves 677 may have an amplitude (shown as wave amplitude WA) that is just slightly less than the MD spacing of the bond sites 675 (shown as dimension C). In some configurations, the waist gasketing element 658A can be attached to an absorbent article in a back waist region such that one of the peaks 680 is generally centered on the back of a wearer of the absorbent article. The waist gasketing element 658B can be attached to the absorbent article in a front waist region such that one of the valleys 682 is generally centered on the front of the wearer of the absorbent article. In accordance with the illustrated embodiment, each peak 680 may in include two adjacent bond sites 675 that are laterally spaced in the cross direction along the same lateral axis. Similarly, each valley 682 may include two bond sites 675 that are laterally spaced in the cross direction along the same lateral axis.

The bond sites 675 connecting each peak 680 and valley 672 may be spaced in the machine direction by a distance A. The distance A may in the range of about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, or in the range of about 1 mm to about 3 mm, or in the range of about 2 to about 10 mm. In some embodiments, the distance A is about 0.5 mm. Laterally adjacent bond sites 675 in a wave can be separated in the cross direction CD by a distance B. The distance B may in the range of about 2 mm to about 6 mm. The distance B may in the range of about 3 mm to about 5 mm, or about 5 mm to about 15 mm. In some embodiments, the distance B is about 4.8 mm. Longitudinally adjacent bond sites 675 in a consecutive waves can be separated in the machine direction MD by a distance C. The distance C may in the range of about 2 mm to about 10 mm. The distance C may in the range of about 7 mm to about 20 mm. In some embodiments, the distance C is about 4 mm.

Referring now to FIG. 10, an example waist gasketing laminate 759 prior to separation at cut locations 760 is schematically illustrated. Subsequent to separation, waist gasketing elements 758A and 758B are formed and can be applied to a chassis of an absorbent article. Similar to various waist gasketing element described above, the waist gasketing laminate 759 can define a plurality of different zones in the cross direction CD. An adhesive zone 771 is a portion of the waist gasketing laminate 759 that is adhered to a chassis of an absorbent article via an adhesive 770. A first adhesive-free zone 773 and a second adhesive-free zone 775 are the portions of the waist gasketing laminate 759 that may be bonded to a chassis of an absorbent article via mechanical bonds 772, as described above. In this example configuration, however, the waist gasketing laminate 759 also includes a first end adhesive portion 721 and a second end adhesive portion 723. An adhesive 770 may be used in the first end adhesive portion 721 and the second end adhesive portion 723 to adhere those portions to a chassis of an absorbent article.

The first end adhesive portion 721 may be positioned in the cross direction CD between the first adhesive-free zone 773 and the adhesive zone 771. The second end adhesive portion 723 may be positioned in the cross direction CD between the adhesive zone 771 and the second adhesive-free zone 775. As shown, the first and second end adhesive portions 721 and 723 may extend in the machine direction MD the entire longitudinal length of the waist gasketing elements 758A and 758B. The application of the adhesive 770 in the first and second end adhesive portions 721 and 723 can beneficially improve the total strength of the mechanical bonds 772, especially when the mechanical bonds 772 are relatively small and have an open pattern.

In some configurations, the width of the first end adhesive portion 721 and a second end adhesive portion 723 in the machine direction is reduced in order to increase the width of an adhesive free zone 777, sometimes referred to as a pocket, that is positioned therebetween. During production of the waist gasketing laminate 759, the adhesive 770 can be applied continuously to the laminate in the first end adhesive portion 721 and the second end adhesive portion 723, while the adhesive 770 applied to the adhesive zone 771 can be applied intermittently. Due to the use of two different adhesive delivery assemblies, a small gap Gin the cross direction CD may be defined between the adhesive zone 771 and each of the first and second end adhesive portions 721 and 723. However, while a gap G is depicted for illustration purpose, this gap may or may not exist as a result of the specific adhesive application that is used. Furthermore, the adhesives in any of the portions 721, 723, and 771 can be applied to the waistband gasketing laminate 759 or can be applied to the chassis.

Referring now to FIG. 11, a cross-sectional view of example waist gasketing element 858 taken in the machine direction is shown in a fully stretched condition. FIG. 12 depicts the waist gasketing element 858 from FIG. 11 in a relaxed, contracted condition. The waist gasketing element 858 can be attached to an absorbent article through a combination of mechanical bonds and adhesive, in accordance with present disclosure. The waist gasketing element 858 can include an elastic film 820. The elastic film 820 may include a first edge region 820A adjacent a first edge 816A and a second edge region 820B adjacent a second edge 816B. The first edge region 820A is separated from the second edge region 820B in the cross direction CD by a central region 820C. During assembly of the waist gasketing element 858 some portions of the first and second edge regions 820A and 820B of the elastic film 820 may remain unstretched in the cross direction CD. Thus, as shown in FIG. 11, the waist gasketing element 858 may include a first film dead zone F_(DZ1) and a second film dead zone F_(DZ2) that may correspond with the unstretched regions of the elastic film 820. In addition, the waist gasketing element 858 may also include a first nonwoven dead zone NW_(DZ1) and a second nonwoven dead zone NW_(DZ2) that correspond with regions where the elastic film 820 is not positioned between the first substrate 816 and the second substrate 818. The first nonwoven dead zone NW_(DZ1) may extend from a first longitudinal edge 880 of the waist gasketing element 858 to the first film dead zone F_(DZ1), and the second nonwoven dead zone NW_(DZ2) may extend from the second longitudinal edge 872 of the waist gasketing element 858 to the second film dead zone F_(DZ2). As such, the waist gasketing element 858 may not be elastomeric in the cross direction CD in the nonwoven dead zones NW_(DZ1), NW_(DZ2) and the film dead zones F_(DZ1), F_(DZ2).

With continued reference to FIG. 11, the waist gasketing element 858 may include a stretch zone S_(Z) located between the nonwoven dead zones NW_(DZ1), NW_(DZ2) and the film dead zones F_(DZ1), F_(DZ2). The waist gasketing element 858 may be elastomeric in the cross direction CD in the stretch zone S_(Z). As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the waist gasketing element 858 may define a width W_(FS) when fully stretched in the cross direction CD (FIG. 10), and the waist gasketing element 858 may define a width W_(FR) when fully relaxed in the cross direction CD (FIG. 11), wherein W_(FR) is less than W_(FS). Similarly, the stretch zone S_(Z) may define a width W_(SZS) when fully stretched in the cross direction CD (FIG. 11), and the stretch zone S_(Z) may define a width W_(SZR) when fully relaxed in the cross direction CD (FIG. 12), wherein W_(SZR) is less than W_(SZS). In some configurations, the width of the adhesive zone 271 in the cross direction CD adhesive zone in fully stretched condition may be equal to or less than the width W_(SZS). It is to be appreciated that the width W_(SZR) and the width W_(SZS) may define have various relative sizes with respect to each other. For example, in some configurations, a ratio of W_(SZS)/W_(SZR) may be from about 1.3 to about 4, specifically reciting all 0.1 increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. It is to be appreciated that the width W_(FR) and the width W_(FS) may define have various relative sizes with respect to each other. For example, in some configurations, a ratio of W_(FS)/W_(FR) may be from about 1.2 to about 3.5, specifically reciting all 0.1 increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby.

As shown in FIG. 11, the first nonwoven dead zone NW_(DZ1) may define a width W_(NWDZ1) in the cross direction CD, and the second nonwoven dead zone NW_(DZ2) may define a width W_(NWDZ2) in the cross direction CD, wherein W_(NWDZ1) may be equal to or different than W_(NWDZ2). In some configurations, the width W_(NWDZ1) and/or the width W_(NWDZ2) may be from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, specifically reciting all 1 mm increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. In some configurations, the width W_(NWDZ1) and/or the width W_(NWDZ2) may be from about 0 mm to about 15 mm, specifically reciting all 1 mm increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. The first film dead zone F_(DZ1) may define a width W_(FDZ1) in the cross direction CD, and second film dead zone F_(DZ2) may define a width W_(FDZ2) in the cross direction CD, wherein W_(FDZ1) may be equal to or different than W_(FDZ2). In some configurations, the width W_(FDZ1) and/or the width W_(FDZ2) may be from about 7 mm to about 12 mm, specifically reciting all 1 mm increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. In some configurations, the width W_(FDZ1) and/or the width W_(FDZ2) may be from about 6 mm to about 15 mm, specifically reciting all 1 mm increments within the above-recited ranges and all ranges formed therein or thereby. In addition, the widths of the nonwoven dead zones W_(NWDZ1), W_(NWDZ2) may be equal to or different from the widths of the film dead zones W_(FDZ1), W_(FDZ2). In some configurations, the combination of the first nonwoven dead zone NW_(DZ1) and the first film dead zone F_(DZ1) may define a first dead zone D_(Z1) of the waist gasketing element 858, and the combination of the second nonwoven dead zone NW_(DZ2) and the second film dead zone F_(DZ2) may define a second dead zone D_(Z2) of the waist gasketing element 858. Thus, the first dead zone D_(Z1) may define a width W_(DZ1) in the cross direction CD that is equal to the sum of the width W_(NWDZ1) and the width W_(FDZ1), and/or the second dead zone D_(Z2) may define a width W_(DZ2) in the cross direction CD that is equal to the sum of the width W_(NWDZ2) and the width W_(FDZ2). It is also to be appreciated that the mechanical bonds 172, 272, 372, 472, 772 discussed herein may extend in the cross direction CD for distances that are less than, equal to, or larger than the width W_(DZ1) and/or the width W_(DZ2). In some configurations, the waist gasketing element 858 may not include the first nonwoven dead zone NW_(DZ1) and/or the second nonwoven dead zone NW_(DZ2). As such, the first film dead zone F_(DZ1) may define the first dead zone D_(Z1) of the waist gasketing element 858, and the second film dead zone F_(DZ2) may define a second dead zone D_(Z2) of the waist gasketing element 858. Thus, the width W_(DZ1) may be equal to the width W_(FDZ1), and/or the width W_(DZ2) may be equal to the width W_(FDZ2).

It is to be appreciated the waist gasketing element 858 may be configured such that the width W_(DZ1) of the first dead zone D_(Z1) may be equal to or different from the width W_(DZ2) of the second zone D_(Z2). In some configurations, the width W_(DZ1) of the first dead zone D_(Z1) width and the width W_(DZ2) of the second dead zone D_(Z2) may each be equal to, less than, or greater than a width of the adhesive-free zones of the waist gasketing element 858.

Waist Gasketing Element with Cotton, Plant-Based Fibers, or Natural Fibers

The various waist gasketing elements disclosed herein may comprise one or more substrates that comprise cotton, plant-based fibers, and/or natural fibers. Such waist gasketing elements may be joined to the wearer facing surface of the absorbent article, so that the waist gasketing element forms a portion of a wearer facing surface and will contact the skin of a wearer. The waist gasketing element may comprise a first nonwoven substrate, a second nonwoven substrate, and an elastic film positioned at least partially intermediate the first and second nonwoven substrates. At least one of the first and second nonwoven substrates may comprise, or be almost entirely, or entirely formed of cotton, plant-based fibers, and/or natural fibers. A cotton, plant-based fiber, or natural fiber content by weight of the first and/or second nonwoven substrates may be in the range of about 5% to about 100%, about 10% to about 100%, about 15% to about 100%, about 50% to about 100%, about 75% to about 100%, about 90% to about 100%, about 100%, or 100%, by weight of the first and/or second nonwoven substrates. The first nonwoven substrate may be positioned on/closest to the topsheet (or furthest away from a wearer) and the second nonwoven substrate may form a portion of a wearer facing surface of the absorbent article. It is desirable for at least the second substrate to contain the cotton, plant-based fibers, and/or natural fibers since the second substrate will be in contact with a wearer's skin and provide a soft, cushiony, comfortable feel. In some instances, the first and second substrates may not contain any cotton, plant-based fibers, or natural fibers and a cotton, plant-based fiber, and/or natural fiber containing substrate may be joined to (e.g., through adhesives or bonding) the second substrate to form a portion of the wearer facing surface of the absorbent article. As such, the waist gasketing elements of the present disclosure may comprise a wearer facing surface formed of, or partially formed of, cotton, plant-based fibers, and/or natural fibers.

Wetness Indicator/Graphics

The absorbent articles of the present disclosure may comprise graphics and/or wetness indicators that are visible from the garment-facing surface. The graphics may be printed on the landing zone, the backsheet, and/or at other locations. The wetness indicators are typically applied to the absorbent core facing side of the backsheet, so that they can be contacted by bodily exudates within the absorbent core In some instances, the wetness indicators may form portions of the graphics. For example, a wetness indicator may appear or disappear and create/remove a character within some graphics. In other instances, the wetness indicators may coordinate (e.g., same design, same pattern, same color) or not coordinate with the graphics.

The wetness indicator may comprise a color changing composition based upon a pH change when contacted with a chemical compound typically contained in urine. The color changing composition can be devoid of poly aromatic hydrocarbons.

Odor Management Materials

Absorbent articles of the present disclosure may employ odor management materials. These materials may manage odors inherit to the raw materials used in the manufacture of the absorbent articles and/or manage odors associated with absorbed material (e.g., urine, feces, menses). The odor management materials may be devoid of perfume raw materials or fragrances as these traditional materials may be irritants to some individuals. The odor management materials may comprise natural extracts, naturally derived materials, and/or mineral-based materials. Example odor management materials encompassed within these categories includes activated carbon, zeolites, silica, and combinations thereof.

Adhesives

Adhesives can be employed to affix one component to another component in the absorbent article's final assembly. Adhesives may also be employed to immobilize sub-components, such as, for example, particulate matter within an absorbent core component. The adhesives in some instances may be devoid of added fluorescence.

Packages

The absorbent articles of the present disclosure may be placed into packages. The packages may comprise a polymeric bag and an optional carton surrounding at least a portion of the polymeric bag. The polymeric bag may comprise bio-based polyolefin. The optional carton may be made of fiberboard and may contain recycled material or a blend of recycled and virgin material. Each package may comprise a plurality of absorbent articles.

Communication in the form of graphics and/or indicia relating to properties of the absorbent articles may be formed on, printed on, positioned on, and/or placed on outer portions of the packages. For example, the communication may relate to the absence of certain undesirable materials, such as chlorine, perfume, scent, fragrance, lotion, non-phthalate-catalyst polypropylene, adhesives having added florescence, and green number 7 dye. The communication may also relate to features of the contained absorbent articles, such as, that the absorbent article has cotton (via cotton seal icon) or plant-based materials.

Examples

Absorbent Article Component Material Material Topsheet Dual layer spunbond 35 gsm air through carded nonwoven web (25 gsm/25 nonwoven web comprising gsm), with each layer 50/50 blend, based on comprising bi-component weight percent, of polyester fibers having a fibers and bio-based polypropylene core and bio- polyethylene fibers based polyethylene sheath No Lotion Top layer: hydrophobic Bottom layer: hydrophilic No Lotion Acquisition 43 gsm carded nonwoven 33 gsm carded nonwoven Layer comprising coarse (>4 dtex) comprising PET fibers (>1 PET fibers using a styrene- dtex) using a styrene- butadiene binder butadiene binder Distribution Hydrogen peroxide Hydrogen peroxide Layer bleached cellulosic material bleached cellulosic material Absorbent Two nonwoven layers and Two nonwoven layers and Core absorbent gelling material absorbent gelling material disposed therebetween disposed therebetween Odor 0.15 g of silica mixed with 0.15 g of silica mixed with Management gelling material in the gelling material in the absorbent core absorbent core No perfume/fragrance No perfume/fragrance Backsheet Polyolefin film Polyolefin film Outer Cover 27-30 gsm hybrid 20-27 gsm air through Material nonwoven comprising a carded nonwoven spunbond layer and one or comprising polypropylene more carded layers, the fibers and 3 to 5 weight layers being integrated via percent cotton fibers hydroentangling, and the Nonwoven can optionally hybrid nonwoven be apertured comprising polypropylene fibers and 15 weight percent cotton fibers Nonwoven can optionally be apertured

The absorbent articles of the present disclosure may be free of, or devoid of, paraben, latex, perfumes, and/or fragrances. Adhesives used in the absorbent articles may be free of, or devoid of, fluorescence. Inks used in the absorbent articles may be free of, or devoid of, green number 7 dye.

The first and second outermost layers (i.e., topsheet and outer cover material) of the absorbent articles disclosed herein may be three-dimensional apertured materials, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0250662, published on Sep. 10, 2015, to Olaf Erik Isele et al. Such a three-dimensional apertured material may form a topsheet and/or an outer cover material of an absorbent article. In an outer cover context, the three-dimensional material may or may not be apertured.

The first and second outermost layers of the absorbent articles disclosed herein may be apertured materials, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0136014, published on May 19, 2016, to Kelyn Anne Arora et al. Such an apertured material may form a topsheet and/or an outer cover material of an absorbent article.

The first and/or second outmost layers of the absorbent articles disclosed herein may or may not comprise plant-based fibers. The first and/or second outermost layers of the absorbent articles disclosed herein may or may not comprise cotton.

Cotton, natural fibers, and/or plant-based fibers may be included in any of the layers of the absorbent articles, such as a core wrap, a topsheet, an outer cover material, a waist gasketing element, a leg gasketing element, an acquisition material, a distribution material, front or back ears, belts, a landing zone, and/or other nonwoven components of an absorbent article.

The first and second outermost layers of the absorbent articles disclosed herein may comprise cotton, but may not comprise bio-based content. One of the first and second outermost layers of the absorbent articles disclosed herein may comprise cotton and be free of bio-based content, while the other of the first and second outermost layers may comprise bio-based content and cotton.

Topsheet Examples:

1. Bicomponent sheath/core fibers; Sheath: Bio Polyethylene 50% by weight of fibers; Core regular polypropylene 50% by weight of fibers; apertured topsheet 2. Bicomponent sheath/core fibers; Sheath: Bio Polyethylene 50% by weight of fibers; Core regular Polyethylene terphathalate 50% by weight of fibers; Three-dimensional, apertured topsheet 3. Bicomponent sheath/core fibers; Sheath: Bio Polyethylene 50% by weight of fibers; Core regular polypropylene 50% by weight of fibers; 5% cotton by weight; Apertured topsheet 4. Bicomponent sheath/core fibers; Sheath: Bio Polyethylene 50% by weight of fibers; Core Polylactic acid PLA 50% by weight of fibers; Apertured topsheet 5. Bicomponent sheath/core fibers; Sheath: Bio Polyethylene 50% by weight of fibers; Core Polylactic acid 50% by weight of fibers; Three-dimensional, apertured topsheet

Outer Cover Nonwoven Material Examples:

1. Polyethylene (10%)/Polypropylene (40%)/Polyethylene terphathalate (35%)/cotton (15%) with a total basis weight of 27 gsm. 2. 85% Bio Polylactic acid by weight and 15% cotton by weight

Combinations

-   -   A. An absorbent article comprising:         -   a. a first outermost layer for contact with a wearer's skin             or a caregiver's skin comprising a first type of plant-based             fibers that are harvested fibers and that are other than             wood pulp, wherein the harvested fibers optionally comprise             a post-harvest treatment; and         -   b. an opposing second outermost layer for contact with the             wearer's skin or the caregiver's skin comprising a second             type of plant-based fibers that are synthetic fibers;         -   c. wherein the first outermost layer bio-based content is             from about 5% to about 100% using ASTM D6866-10, method B;             and         -   d. wherein the second outermost layer bio-based content is             from about 5% to about 100% using ASTM D6866-10, method B.     -   B. The absorbent article of paragraph A, wherein the first         outermost layer bio-based content is from about 10% to about 50%         using ASTM D6866-10, method B.     -   C. The absorbent article of paragraph B, wherein the second         outermost layer bio-based content is from about 10% to about 50%         using ASTM D6866-10, method B.     -   D. The absorbent article of paragraph A, wherein the second         outermost layer bio-based content is from about 10% to about 50%         using ASTM D6866-10, method B.     -   E. The absorbent article of paragraph A, wherein the first         outermost layer bio-based content is greater than that of the         second outermost layer.     -   F. The absorbent article of paragraph A, wherein the second         outermost layer bio-based content is greater than that of the         first outermost layer.     -   G. The absorbent article of paragraph A, wherein the first type         of plant-based fibers comprise harvested fibers.     -   H. The absorbent article of paragraph G, wherein the harvested         fibers comprise cotton fibers.     -   I. The absorbent article of paragraph H, wherein the cotton         fibers are bleached but are devoid of chlorine.     -   J. The absorbent article of paragraph A, wherein the second type         of plant-based fibers comprises synthetic fibers.     -   K. The absorbent article of paragraph J, wherein the synthetic         fibers comprises bio-based polyethylene.     -   L. The absorbent article of paragraph A, wherein at least one of         the first outermost layer and the second outermost layer further         comprises petroleum-based synthetic fibers.     -   M. The absorbent article of paragraph L, wherein the         petroleum-based synthetic fibers are selected from the group         comprising polyethylene fibers, polypropylene fibers, polyester         fibers, and combinations thereof.     -   N. The absorbent article of paragraph L, wherein the         petroleum-based synthetic fibers comprise non-phthalate catalyst         polypropylene fibers.     -   O. The absorbent article of paragraph A, wherein the absorbent         article comprises a naturally-derived odor management material.     -   P. The absorbent article of paragraph A, wherein the absorbent         article comprises a mineral-based odor management material.     -   Q. The absorbent article of paragraph P, wherein the         mineral-based odor management material is selected from the         group consisting of activated carbon, zeolites, silica, natural         extracts, and combinations thereof.     -   R. The absorbent article of paragraph A, wherein the absorbent         article comprises absorbent gelling material having a bio-based         content of from about 5% to about 100% using ASTM D6866-10,         method B.     -   S. An absorbent article comprising:         -   a. a first outermost layer defined as an outer cover             nonwoven for contact with a caregiver, wherein the outer             cover nonwoven comprises a first type of plant-based fibers;             and         -   b. an opposing second outermost layer defined as a topsheet             for contact with a wearer's skin, wherein the topsheet             comprises a second type of plant-based fibers that are             different from the first type of plant-based fibers;         -   c. wherein the second outermost layer has a lower water             retention value than that of the first outermost layer;         -   d. wherein the first outermost layer bio-based content is             from about 5% to about 100% using ASTM D6866-10, method B;             and         -   e. wherein the second outermost layer bio-based content is             from about 5% to about 100% using ASTM D6866-10, method B.     -   T. The absorbent article of paragraph S, wherein the first         outermost layer bio-based content is from about 10% to about 50%         using ASTM D6866-10, method B.     -   U. The absorbent article of paragraph S, wherein the second         outermost layer bio-based content is from about 10% to about 50%         using ASTM D6866-10, method B.     -   V. The absorbent article of paragraph S, wherein the second         outermost layer bio-based content is from about 10% to about 50%         using ASTM D6866-10, method B.     -   W. The absorbent article of paragraph S, wherein the absorbent         article comprises a naturally-derived odor management material.     -   X. The absorbent article of paragraph S, wherein the absorbent         article comprises a mineral-based odor management material.     -   Y. The absorbent article of paragraph X, wherein the         mineral-based odor management material is selected from the         group consisting of activated carbon, zeolites, silica, natural         extracts, and combinations thereof     -   Z. The absorbent article of paragraph S, wherein the absorbent         article comprises absorbent gelling material having a bio-based         content of from about 5% to about 100% using ASTM D6866-10,         method B.     -   AA. An absorbent article comprising:         -   a. a first outermost layer for contact with a wearer's skin             or a caregiver's skin, the first outermost layer comprising             a first nonwoven comprising plant-based fibers comprising             harvested fibers other than wood pulp; and         -   b. an opposing second outermost layer for contact with the             wearer's skin or the caregiver's skin, the second outermost             layer comprising a second nonwoven comprising plant-based             fiber comprising synthetic fibers;         -   c. wherein the first nonwoven is different from the second             nonwoven in at least one of basis weight, density,             composition, and structure.     -   BB. The absorbent article of paragraph AA, wherein the first         nonwoven has a greater basis weight than the nonwoven.     -   CC. The absorbent article of paragraph AA, wherein the first         nonwoven is different from the second nonwoven in both basis         weight and composition.     -   DD. The absorbent article of paragraph AA, wherein the first         nonwoven is different from the second nonwoven in basis weight,         composition, and structure.     -   EE. The absorbent article of paragraph AA, wherein the first         nonwoven has a different structure than the second nonwoven via         fiber-to-fiber bonding or entanglement.     -   FF. The absorbent article of paragraph EE, wherein the first         nonwoven is hydroentangled and the second nonwoven comprised         fiber-to-fiber thermal bonding.     -   GG. The absorbent article of paragraph AA, wherein the first         nonwoven bio-based content is from about 5% to about 50% using         ASTM D6866-10, method B.     -   HH. The absorbent article of paragraph AA, wherein the second         nonwoven bio-based content is from about 5% to about 50% using         ASTM D6866-10, method B.     -   II. The absorbent article of paragraph AA, wherein the         plant-based synthetic fibers comprise bio-based polyolefin         fibers.     -   JJ. The absorbent article of paragraph AA, wherein the         plant-based harvested fibers comprise cotton fibers.     -   KK. The absorbent article of paragraph JJ, wherein the cotton         fibers are bleached but are devoid of chlorine.     -   LL. The absorbent article of any one of paragraphs AA-JJ,         further comprising an intermediate layer disposed between the         first outermost layer and the second outermost layer, wherein         the intermediate layer comprises cellulosic materials that are         bleached but are devoid of chlorine.     -   MM. The absorbent article of any one of paragraphs AA-JJ,         further comprising an absorbent core disposed between the first         outermost layer and the second outermost layer, wherein the         absorbent core comprises 80%, by weight of the absorbent core,         of a particulate absorbent gelling material.     -   NN. The absorbent article of any one of paragraphs AA-MM,         wherein the absorbent article is devoid of perfume or fragrance.     -   OO. The absorbent article of any one of paragraphs AA-NN,         wherein the absorbent article is devoid of a lotion.     -   PP. The absorbent article of any one of paragraphs AA-OO,         wherein at least one of the first nonwoven and the second         nonwoven comprises non-phthalate catalyst polypropylene fibers.     -   QQ. The absorbent article of any one of paragraphs AA-PP,         wherein each of the first nonwoven and the second nonwoven         further comprises petroleum-based fibers.     -   RR. The absorbent article of any one of paragraphs AA-QQ,         further comprising a mineral-based odor management material.     -   SS. The absorbent article of paragraph RR, wherein the odor         management material comprises a material selected from the group         consisting of activated carbon, zeolites, silica, natural         extracts, and combinations thereof.     -   TT. The absorbent article of any one of paragraphs AA-SS,         further comprising adhesive that is devoid of fluorescence.     -   UU. The absorbent article of any one of paragraphs AA-TT,         further comprising ink that is devoid of green number 7 dye.     -   VV. The absorbent article of paragraph AA, wherein the absorbent         article comprises absorbent gelling material having a bio-based         content of from about 5% to about 100% using ASTM D6866-10,         method B.     -   WW. An absorbent article comprising:         -   a. a plurality of layers comprising a topsheet comprising a             nonwoven, a backsheet comprising a polymeric film, an outer             cover comprising a nonwoven disposed on the backsheet             polymeric film, an absorbent core, and             acquisition/distribution layer disposed between the topsheet             and the absorbent core;         -   b. at least one of the plurality of layers comprising             cellulosic materials, wherein the cellulosic materials are             bleached but are devoid of chlorine;         -   c. at least one of the plurality of layers comprising cotton             fibers; and         -   d. at least one of the plurality of layers comprising             bio-based synthetic fibers.     -   XX. The absorbent article of paragraph WW, wherein the bio-based         synthetic fibers are selected from the group comprising         polyester fibers, polyethylene fibers, polypropylene fibers,         polyolefin fibers, and combinations thereof.     -   YY. The absorbent article of paragraph WW, wherein the         cellulosic fibers that are bleached but are devoid of chlorine         are disposed within the acquisition/distribution layer.     -   ZZ. The absorbent article of paragraph WW, wherein the         cellulosic fibers that are bleached are devoid of chlorine are         not in the absorbent core.     -   AAA. The absorbent article of paragraph WW, wherein the cotton         fibers are bleached but are devoid of chlorine.     -   BBB. The absorbent article of paragraph WW, further comprising         an odor management material.     -   CCC. The absorbent article of paragraph BBB, wherein the odor         management material comprises a material selected from the group         consisting of activated carbon, zeolites, silica, natural         extracts, and combinations thereof     -   DDD. The absorbent article of paragraph WW, wherein the         absorbent article comprises absorbent gelling material having a         bio-based content of from about 5% to about 100% using ASTM         D6866-10, method B.     -   EEE. An absorbent article comprising:         -   a. a plurality of layers comprising a topsheet comprising a             nonwoven, a backsheet comprising a polymeric film, an outer             cover comprising a nonwoven disposed on the backsheet             polymeric film, an absorbent core, and             acquisition/distribution layer disposed between the topsheet             and the absorbent core;         -   b. at least one of the topsheet, the outer cover, and the             acquisition/distribution layer comprising cellulosic             materials, wherein the cellulosic materials are bleached but             are devoid of chlorine; and         -   c. at least one of the plurality of layers comprising cotton             fibers.     -   FFF. An absorbent article comprising:         -   a. a plurality of layers comprising a topsheet comprising a             nonwoven, a backsheet comprising a polymeric film, an outer             cover comprising a nonwoven disposed on the backsheet             polymeric film, an absorbent core, and             acquisition/distribution layer disposed between the topsheet             and the absorbent core;         -   b. at least one of the topsheet, the outer cover, and the             acquisition/distribution layer comprising cellulosic             materials, wherein the cellulosic materials are bleached but             are devoid of chlorine; and         -   c. at least one of the plurality of layers comprising             bio-based synthetic fibers.     -   GGG. An absorbent article comprising:         -   a. a topsheet comprising plant-based synthetic fibers;         -   b. a backsheet outer cover material comprising plant-based             harvested fibers other than wood pulp;         -   c. a fibrous layer disposed between the topsheet and the             backsheet comprising bleached cellulosic materials;         -   d. wherein the absorbent article is free of at least one of             the following undesired features:             -   i. chlorine;             -   ii. perfume or fragrance;             -   iii. lotion;             -   iv. non-phthalate catalyst polypropylene fibers;             -   v. adhesives having added florescence; and             -   vi. green number 7 dye.     -   HHH. The absorbent article of paragraph GGG, wherein the         absorbent article is free of at least two of the undesired         features.     -   III. The absorbent article of paragraph GGG, wherein the         absorbent article is free of at least three of the undesired         features.     -   JJJ. The absorbent article of paragraph GGG, wherein the         absorbent article is free of at least four of the undesired         features.     -   KKK. The absorbent article of paragraph GGG, wherein the         absorbent article is free of at least five of the undesired         features.     -   LLL. The absorbent article of paragraph GGG, wherein the         absorbent article is free of all of the undesired features.     -   MMM. The absorbent article of paragraph GGG, wherein the         absorbent article comprises absorbent gelling material having a         bio-based content of from about 5% to about 100% using ASTM         D6866-10, method B.     -   NNN. An absorbent article comprising:         -   a. an absorbent core comprises absorbent material comprising             absorbent gelling material and optionally wood pulp; and         -   b. a plurality of additional layers comprising a topsheet             situated on one side of the absorbent core, a backsheet             situated on an opposite side of the absorbent core, and an             optional acquisition/distribution layer disposed between the             topsheet and the absorbent core;         -   c. wherein at least one of the plurality of additional             layers comprises bio-based content of from about 5% to about             100% using ASTM D6866-10, method B; and         -   d. wherein the absorbent article comprises a             naturally-derived odor management material that is distinct             from the absorbent material.     -   OOO. The absorbent article of paragraph NNN, wherein the         naturally-derived odor management material is substantially         scent-free.     -   PPP. An absorbent article comprising:         -   a. an absorbent core comprises absorbent material comprising             absorbent gelling material and optionally wood pulp; and         -   b. a plurality of additional layers comprising a topsheet             situated on one side of the absorbent core, a backsheet             situated on an opposite side of the absorbent core, and an             optional acquisition/distribution layer disposed between the             topsheet and the absorbent core;         -   c. wherein at least one of the plurality of additional             layers comprises bio-based content of from about 5% to about             100% using ASTM D6866-10, method B; and         -   d. wherein the absorbent article comprises a mineral-based             odor management material that is distinct from the absorbent             material.     -   QQQ. A package of absorbent articles comprising:         -   a. a package comprising a polymeric bag and an optional             carton surrounding at least a portion of the polymeric bag;         -   b. a plurality of absorbent articles disposed within the             polymeric bag;         -   c. wherein each of the absorbent articles comprises cotton             fibers, bleached cellulosic materials, plant-based synthetic             fibers, and an odor management material; and         -   d. wherein at least one of the polymeric bag and the             optional carton comprise communications that the absorbent             articles comprise cotton fibers, are devoid of chlorine, and             are devoid of fragrance or perfume.     -   RRR. The package of paragraph QQQ, wherein the polymeric bag         comprises a polymeric film comprising bio-based polyolefin.     -   SSS. The package of paragraph QQQ, wherein the communications         comprise the seal of cotton trademarked logo.     -   TTT. A package of absorbent articles comprising:         -   a. a package comprising a polymeric bag and an optional             carton surrounding at least a portion of the polymeric bag;         -   b. a plurality of absorbent articles disposed within the             polymeric bag, wherein each of the absorbent articles             comprises:             -   i. an absorbent core comprises absorbent material                 comprising absorbent gelling material and optionally                 wood pulp; and             -   ii. a plurality of additional layers comprising a                 topsheet situated on one side of the absorbent core, a                 backsheet situated on an opposite side of the absorbent                 core, and an optional acquisition/distribution layer                 disposed between the topsheet and the absorbent core;             -   iii. wherein at least one of the plurality of additional                 layers comprises bio-based content of from about 5% to                 about 100% using ASTM D6866-10, method B; and             -   iv. wherein the absorbent article comprises a                 mineral-based odor management material that is distinct                 from the absorbent material;         -   c. wherein each of the absorbent articles comprises cotton             fibers, bleached cellulosic materials, plant-based synthetic             fibers, and an odor management material; and         -   d. wherein at least one of the polymeric bag and the             optional carton comprise communications that the absorbent             articles are free of at least one of scent, fragrance,             perfume, and chlorine.

Test Methods: Basis Weight, Density and Water Retention

Measurements are conducted at 23° C.±2 C.° and 50%±2% relative humidity. All samples are conditioned at this environment for 2 hours prior to testing. Harvest the substrate/component/material of interest from an absorbent article. From the longitudinal and lateral centerline of the sample, accurately cut a specimen of approximately 10 cm² to the nearest 0.01 cm². Measure the mass of the specimen and record as the dry mass to the nearest 0.0001 g. Basis weight is calculated from the measured mass (g) and area (m²) and recorded to the nearest 0.1 g/m² (gsm).

Caliper is measured using a digital caliper such as an Ono Sokki linear gauge sensor GS-503 capable of measuring thickness to ±0.001 mm. A 25.0 mm±0.1 mm diameter circular foot which applies a pressure of 0.69 kPa±0.01 kPa is used. The caliper anvil is larger than the foot. The instrument is calibrated per the manufactures specifications. With the foot resting on the anvil, zero the digital caliper. Lift the caliper foot and center the specimen under the foot. Gently lower the foot onto the surface of the specimen at a rate of approximately 2 mm/s. Read and record to the nearest 0.01 mm.

Calculate the volume of the specimen using the measured area (cm²) and caliper (cm), and record to the nearest 0.01 cm³. Density is calculated by dividing the measured mass (g) by the measured volume (cm³). Record to the nearest 0.01 g/cm³.

Take the specimen and submerge it in distilled water for 5.0±0.1 min. Remove the specimen from the water, carefully suspend the specimen vertically from its corner for 10±0.1 min to allow to drain. Measure the mass of the specimen and record as the wet mass to the nearest 0.0001 g. Calculate the Water Retention as the difference between the wet mass and dry mass divided by the dry mass (g). Record to the nearest 0.01 g/g.

In like fashion, repeat the measurements for a total of 10 replicate specimens, and report results as the arithmetic average for Basis Weight (g/m²), Density (g/cm³) and Water Retention (g/g).

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm.”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A disposable absorbent article, comprising: a front waist region, a back waist region, and a crotch region disposed between the front and back waist regions; a longitudinal axis and a lateral axis; a front waist edge, a back waist edge, a first side edge extending longitudinally and a second side edge extending longitudinally; a chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet; a waist gasketing element comprising a proximal end edge, a distal end edge, a first side edge, a second side edge, and an elastic material; and a leg gasketing element comprising a proximal end edge, a distal end edge, a first side edge and a second side edge, and an elastic material; wherein at least a portion of the waist gasketing element is adhesively attached to the chassis, wherein at least a portion of the waist gasketing element is mechanically attached to the chassis, and wherein the waist gasketing element comprises an adhesive zone, a first adhesive-free zone, and a second adhesive-free zone; and wherein the bio-based content of the absorbent article is from about 5% to about 100% using ASTM D6866-10, method B.
 2. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the first adhesive-free zone is disposed at and adjacent to the first side edge of the waist gasketing element and the second adhesive-free zone is disposed at and adjacent to the second side edge of the waist gasketing element.
 3. The disposable absorbent article of claim 2, wherein the waist gasketing element comprises a third adhesive-free zone disposed at and adjacent to the proximal end edge of the waist gasketing element at a central region of the waist gasketing element, such that the proximal end edge of the waist gasketing element at the central region is not attached to the chassis.
 4. The disposable absorbent article of claim 2, wherein the waist gasketing element comprises a third adhesive-free zone disposed at and adjacent to the proximal end edge of the waist gasketing element at a central region of the waist gasketing element, and wherein the adhesive zone is disposed at and adjacent to the distal end edge of the waist gasketing element.
 5. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein first and second mechanical bonds attach the waist gasketing element to the chassis.
 6. The disposable absorbent article of claim 5, wherein the first and second mechanical bonds overlap the first and second adhesive-free zones, respectively.
 7. The disposable absorbent article of claim 5, wherein the adhesive zone does not comprise the first and second mechanical bonds.
 8. The disposable absorbent article of claim 5, wherein the first and second mechanical bonds extend through the waist gasketing element, a leg gasketing element, the topsheet, and the backsheet.
 9. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the waist gasketing element comprises a first nonwoven, a second nonwoven, and a film between the first and second nonwovens, and wherein the first nonwoven is ultrasonically bonded to the second nonwoven.
 10. The disposable absorbent article of claim 9, wherein the first and second nonwovens are connected through the film.
 11. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the waist gasketing element is a laminate comprising a plurality of bond sites arranged in a pattern.
 12. The disposable absorbent article of claim 11, wherein the pattern comprises a non-linear arrangement of adjacent bond sites, wherein the plurality of bond sites are arranged in a wavy pattern, wherein a wave of bonds in the wavy pattern defines a wave amplitude, wherein consecutive bonds in the machine direction are separated by a bond distance, and wherein the wave amplitude is at least half of the bond distance.
 13. The disposable absorbent article claim 1, wherein the bio-based content of the absorbent article is from about 10% to about 50% using ASTM D6866-10, method B.
 14. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, comprising a topsheet or an outer cover material comprising plant-based fibers comprising harvested fibers other than wood pulp.
 15. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, comprising a topsheet or an outer cover material comprising plant-based fibers comprising synthetic fibers.
 16. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the absorbent article is free of chlorine, perfume, lotion, green number 7 dye, and non-phthalate catalyst polypropylene.
 17. The disposable absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the waist gasketing element comprises a wearer facing surface formed of cotton.
 18. A disposable absorbent article, comprising: a front waist region, a back waist region, and a crotch region disposed between the front and back waist regions; a longitudinal axis and a lateral axis; a front waist edge, a back waist edge, a first side edge extending longitudinally and a second side edge extending longitudinally; a chassis comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet; a waist gasketing element comprising a proximal end edge, a distal end edge, a first side edge, a second side edge, and an elastic material; and a leg gasketing element comprising a proximal end edge, a distal end edge, a first side edge and a second side edge, and an elastic material; wherein at least a portion of the waist gasketing element is adhesively attached to the chassis and wherein at least a portion of the waist gasketing element is mechanically attached to the leg gasketing element, wherein the waist gasketing element comprises an adhesive zone, a first adhesive-free zone, and a second adhesive-free zone; and wherein the absorbent article is free of chlorine, perfume, lotion, green number 7 dye, and non-phthalate catalyst polypropylene.
 19. The disposable absorbent article of claim 18, wherein at least a portion of the waist gasketing element is mechanically attached to the chassis.
 20. The disposable absorbent article of claim 18, wherein the first adhesive-free zone is disposed at and adjacent to the first side edge of the waist gasketing element and the second adhesive-free zone is disposed at and adjacent to the second side edge of the waist gasketing element.
 21. The disposable absorbent article of claim 20, wherein the waist gasketing element comprises a third adhesive-free zone disposed at and adjacent to the proximal end edge of the waist gasketing element at a central region of the waist gasketing element, such that the proximal end edge of the waist gasketing element at the central region is not attached to the chassis.
 22. The disposable absorbent article of claim 20, wherein the waist gasketing element comprises a third adhesive-free zone disposed at and adjacent to the proximal end edge of the waist gasketing element at a central region of the waist gasketing element, and wherein the adhesive zone is disposed at and adjacent to the distal end edge of the waist gasketing element.
 23. The disposable absorbent article claim 18, wherein the bio-based content of the absorbent article is from about 10% to about 50% using ASTM D6866-10, method B.
 24. The disposable absorbent article of claim 23, comprising a topsheet or an outer cover material comprising plant-based fibers comprising harvested fibers other than wood pulp.
 25. The disposable absorbent article of claim 23, comprising a topsheet or an outer cover material comprising plant-based fibers comprising synthetic fibers.
 26. The absorbent article of claim 23, comprising a mineral-based odor management material.
 27. The disposable absorbent article of claim 23, wherein the waist gasketing element comprises a wearer facing surface formed of cotton. 